Capistrano Unified School District

Parent & Family Resources

As a public school district, we believe that strong partnerships and collaboration with families are essential to student success. At Capistrano Unified School District, we value the input of parents and guardians and see them as vital partners in helping students reach their full potential. We are committed to transparency in all we do, recognizing that openness builds trust and strengthens our relationships with the community.

Parents and gaurdians rights are supported by both state Education Code and District policies, and schools are required to make reasonable efforts to accomodate families from diverse backgrounds and schedules.

The CUSD Parent Partnership document outlines all of the ways that the District and families work together to maximize the achievement of students. The policies and practices outlined in this document, and Ed Code, reflect both legal entitlements and best practices for inclusive, responsive educational environments.

California Education code 51101 - Parental rights and responsiblities

Enacted as part of the "Parent Empowerment Act," this law affirms the rights of parents to be actively involved in their children's education. Here is a breakdown of the key attributes:

Right to participate in school activities
- Parents/guardians have the right to-
  - Visit their child's classroom to observe instruction
  - Participate in school-sponsored activities
  - Be informed of their child's academic progress and school performance
Right to access and review educational materials
- Parents have the right to-
  - Examine the curriculum materials and instructional content used in their child's classes
  - Inspect and review their child's academic records
  - Receive information on academic standards, assessments and student achievement
Right to be notified and informed
- Schools must notify parents about-
  - Their child's academic progress and performance
  - School rules and attendance policies
  - Any significant issues affecting their child's academic or behavioral status
  - Their rights and responsibilities under the law
Right to support learning at home
- Parents are entitled to-
  - Receive guidance on how to assist their child at home in academic improvement
  - Be provided resources to help support learning and behavioral expectations
Right to participate in educaitonal decision-making
- Parents have the right to-
  - Participate in advisory councils (School Site Council, English Learner Advisory Committee, Community Action Council, etc.)
  - Be involved in decisions about educational programs and services, especially those funded through the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP)
  - Be consulted in the development of the school's educational goals
Right to Opt-Out and Consent
- - Parents may-
    - Opt out of certain instructional content, including comprehensive sexual health education
    - Withhold consent for participation in surveys, assessments or data collection not required by law
    - Decline participation in certain psychological examinations of their child
Right to a safe and supportive environment
- Parents have the right to-
  - Expect that their child learns in a safe, secure and respectful setting
  - Receive updates on bullying prevention and discipline policies