The Garden Grove Unified School District is committed to the philosophy of providing all individuals with exceptional needs the right to participate in free appropriate public education. If special education instruction and services for these persons are needed, we will ensure them of the right to an appropriate educational opportunity to meet their unique needs.


What Is Special Education

The California Education Code (Section 56031) describes Special Education as:

"Specially 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 regular 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 or youth with disabilities and children, or youth who are not disabled, in a manner that is appropriate to the needs of both."


Referral and Identification

A written referral should be made to the Office of Special Education Services or the school principal requesting an assessment. Within 15 days of the request for assessment, the district will provide an assessment plan for approval. Upon written approval of the assessment plan, the district has 60 calendar days to complete the assessment, conduct an Individual Educational Plan (IEP)Team meeting, and determine eligibility for services. Parents are equal members of the team.

If it is determined by the IEP Team that Special Education placement is needed for the child, an educational program will be developed to meet the child's needs.

Assessment does not necessarily result in special educational placement. The child may not need special education. Modification of the regular program may be sufficient.


Special Education Programs

The IEP Team determines the most appropriate placement in the least restrictive environment which meet the needs of the student with the least amount of change from the regular education program. School settings in the home school or nearby school are usually considered first.

If you would like additional information about the Special Education programs offered in the Garden Grove Unified School District or our Community Advisory Committee, please call the district's Office of Special Education Services at 663-6233.