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Overview

Federal and state laws require the district to identify, locate and assess all students within the district from birth through 21 years of age who may have disabilities, and then provide appropriate programs and/or services to those eligible. Programs and services are provided based on the individual needs of the student outlined in an Individualized Education Program (IEP). Parents are key members of the IEP team. This site is designed to provide families with information about the processes listed above in order to enhance their meaningful participation.

The Capistrano Unified School District is committed to providing young children and eligible students with disabilities a free and appropriate public education. Special Education is defined in the California Education Code (56031) as:
 
Specifically designed instruction, at no cost to the parent, to meet the unique needs of individuals with exceptional needs whose educational needs cannot be met with modification of the general instructional program, and related services at no cost to the parent, which may be needed to assist such individuals to benefit from specially designed instruction. Special education is an integral part of the total public education system and provides education in a manner that promotes maximum interaction between children with disabilities and typically developing children in a manner which is appropriate to the needs of both.
 
Special education programs in Capistrano Unified School District are provided for children ages 3 through 21 who qualify according to laws and regulations as outlined in the California Education Code and the Federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Infants and toddlers 0-3 who are deaf or hard of hearing, orthopedically impaired, or visually impaired may also qualify for services.
 
Children with disabilities may need Special Education services in addition to or different from those provided in their general school program. Through Special Education and supportive technology; instructional techniques, materials, and equipment will be adapted to meet the individual educational needs of the exceptional student while maintaining, to the greatest extent possible, the educational program and setting that is available to the general education population.