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Special Education

Information and resources to serve the unique needs of persons with disabilities so that each person will meet or exceed high standards of achievement in academic and nonacademic skills.
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Mission

The California Department of Education collaborates closely with education partners to create inclusive learning environments, deliver high-quality programs and resources, and support data-driven continuous improvement, ensuring that students with disabilities are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to achieve exceptional educational outcomes.

Families, Students & Educators

Family Involvement & Partnerships
Information regarding organizations, partnerships, and resources for parents, guardians, and families of students with disabilities.

Secondary Transition
Resources and guidelines to assist children and youth with disabilities as they transition from school to adult life.

Programs & Services

Integrated Monitoring
Information on California’s Compliance Improvement Monitoring system, California Special Education Technical Assistance Network, as well as other resoures for technical assistance and professional development.

Nonpublic Schools & Nonpublic Agencies
Information and resources regarding certified Nonpublic Schools and Nonpublic Agencies.

Policy, Compliance & Accountability

Dispute Resolution
Information and resources for resolving disputes in special education.

Fiscal Management
Oversight, monitoring, and administration of funds designated for serving students with disabilities.

Policies & Initiatives
Federal and state legislation, laws, regulations, policies, workgroups, commissions, and guidance related to special education.

Special Education Data
Special Education data collection and reporting.

News & Communications

Communications
Official messages from the State Director of Special Education, notices, newsletters, meeting agendas, and frequently asked questions.

Questions:   Special Education Division | SEDCO@cde.ca.gov | 916-445-4613
Last Reviewed: Wednesday, July 15, 2026
Trending in Special Education
Recently Posted in Special Education
  • California Special Education Local Plan Areas (updated 17-Jul-2026)
    Service area covered by a special education local plan and the governance structure created under any of the planning options of Section 56205, 56206, 56208, 56211, 56213, 56241, 56243, 56244, & 56245 of the Education Code.
  • Complaint Process (updated 17-Jul-2026)
    The special education complaint process with federal and state law resource links.
  • California Dyslexia Guidelines (PDF) (updated 17-Jul-2026)
    Assembly Bill (AB) 1369 requires the Superintendent of Public Instruction to develop program guidelines for dyslexia. The guidelines will be used to assist educators and parents to identify, assess and support pupils with
  • Nonpublic Schools Certification Data (updated 17-Jul-2026)
    The Nonpublic Schools Certification Data contains information regarding those currently certified by the California Department of Education to serve students.
  • Equitable Services for Students with Disabilities (updated 17-Jul-2026)
    Equitable services provisions and proportionate share calculation are required for students aged 3-21, parentally placed in private school. Local Educational Agencies have an obligation to locate and evaluate all students within their boundaries.