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REFER YOUR CHILD FOR SPECIAL EDUCATION

Parents who suspect their child has a disability are advised to contact their local school district or the Ventura County Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA). Federal and state laws require public schools to provide free and appropriate education for children with disabilities that are impacting educational performance. From birth through age 21, children and young adults with disabilities may qualify for special education programs in public schools.  The first step is assessment, to determine if the student is eligible for Special Education. If eligible, a team will work with the parents to determine the appropriate services and supports to meet the student's needs.

To request assessment for your child, put your request in writing, indicating the area(s) of concern.

Be sure to sign it and date it and give it to school staff-  the principal or school psychologist is a good bet. 

The SELPA is a regional consortium that includes all public school districts  in Ventura County, the Las Virgenes Unified School District, and schools operated by the Ventura County Office of Education. If you have questions, please call the SELPA Office, at (805) 437-1560. 

 

PARENT RESOURCES AND BOOKLETS

The Ventura County SELPA believes that information is power for families to best support their children's success in school as well as life. Following are some local as well as outside resources that we hope will be useful to you!

Book icon See the Ventura County Parent Guide to Special Education for a complete description of the IEP process.

Parent Guide to Special Education (2024)

 

 

 

ATTENTION DEFICIT/HYPERACTIVE DISORDER (ADHD)
90 Ways to Help Students With ADHD

ACCOMMODATIONS IN THE CLASSROOM
A+ Guide to Modifications & Accommodations for Students in General Education Classrooms Brochure

AUTISM
Autism Spectrum Disorders Informational Brochure for Parents   Spanish

BULLYING
Bullying and the Child with Special Needs
Bullying and Children and Youth with Disabilities and Special Health Needs Tip Sheet

COMMUNITY AGENCIES
Agency 101 Resource Directory 
Community Resource Directory   Spanish

DEAF/HARD OF HEARING
DHH Brochure     Spanish
DHH Programs FAQs

RECREATION

Recreational Activities/Resource Guide 

REFERRAL/PRE-REFERRAL
Are you Concerned About Your Child's Progress in School?    Spanish
RtI Parent Brochure    Spanish


Independent Educational Evaluation IEE
Independent Educational Evaluation IEE

 

REGIONAL CENTER OR SCHOOLS

Family Fact Sheet:  Sorting thorugh services to help your child....Regional Center or Schools?

THE SELPA

What Exactly is a SELPA and What Does it Do?

SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL/BEHAVIORAL
My Child has Emotional & Behavior Challenges...How can I find help?    Spanish
Fact Sheet About Residential Care Options    Spanish

TRANSITION TO ADULT LIFE
Going to College or Thinking About It?
Transitioning to High School    Spanish

WHO TO CALL

TO REFER A CHILD PRIOR TO THEIR THIRD BIRTHDAY, CALL:

 

TO REFER A CHILD OVER THREE YEARS OLD:

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