SPECIAL EDUCATION

What is Special Education?

Special education is instruction specially designed, at no cost to you, to meet your child's or youth's unique needs. Special education can include classroom instruction, home instruction, instruction in hospitals and institutions, or other settings. It can also include instruction in physical education and vocational education.

The federal law that supports special education and related services is called the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Under IDEA, all eligible school-aged children and youth with disabilities are entitled to receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE).

Delhi Unified School District is part of the Merced County Office of Education Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA). All 20 Merced County school districts and MCOE participate in the Merced County Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA).

Steps in the Special Education Process

  1. Identification

  2. Request for an Evaluation

  3. Evaluation

  4. Eligibility for Special Education

  5. Individualized Educational Program (IEP)

  6. Re-evaluations

How can I support my child's learning?

Here are some suggestions that can help you support your child's learning and maintain a good working relationship with school professionals:

  • Let your child's teacher(s) know that you want to be involved in your child's educational program. Make time to talk with the teacher(s) and, if possible, visit the classroom.

  • Explain any special equipment, medication, or medical problem your child has.

  • Let the teacher(s) know about any activities or big events that may influence your child's performance in school.

  • Ask that samples of your child's work be sent home. If you have questions, make an appointment with the teacher(s) to talk about new ways to meet your child's goals.

  • Ask the teacher(s) how you can build upon your child's school activities at home.

  • Give your child chores at home. Encourage behavior that leads to success in school, such as accepting responsibility, behaving, being organized, and being on time.

  • Volunteer to help in the classroom or school. This will let you see how things work in the school and how your child interacts with others. It will also help the school.

Remember that you and the school want success for your child. Working together can make this happen.