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What does special education mean?
Special Education is an individualized education program specially designed instruction, at no cost to the parent, to meet the needs of children with disabilities.
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How do I get my child assessed if I have a concern?
Parents of Head Start children are encouraged to talk with Head Start staff if they have concerns about their child’s development. A letter to the local school district program specialist, or appropriate referral personnel requesting an assessment may be needed if a child is not enrolled in a Head Start program. By state law, your school district must give you an assessment plan within 15 days of the receipt of your written request. Your written permission is needed before an assessment is given to your child.
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What makes my child eligible for special education services?
A Head Start preschool child is eligible for 
special education services if he/she meets the eligibility criteria for specific disabling conditions. Such conditions include:
- Autism
- Blindness
- Deaf/blind
- Hearing impairment
- Mental retardation
- Multiple disabilities
- Orthopedic impairments
- Other Health Impaired
- Serious emotional disturbance
- Specific learning disabilities
- Speech and Language impairment
- Traumatic brain injury
- Visual impairment
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Who provides special education services?
Special education services may be provided at an early learning center, elementary school, Head Start Learning Center, clinics, child development programs, or special preschool. The school district in which you reside should be consulted if you have any questions regarding specific personnel who will be providing services.
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IEP is developed
The Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a written plan that addresses the educational program for the student. Current levels of educational performance, measurable annual goals, including benchmarks or short term goals are components of the IEP including a statement of special education services and related
services needed to meet the goals.
The IEP is developed at a meeting with a team that must include the parent or legal guardian, a regular education teacher (if appropriate), a district representative or school administrator, and special education teacher or therapist. Other participants may be present as designated by the parent or school district.
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What is Part C?
Formerly known as Part H of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) P.I. 99-457, Part C governs the early intervention program for infant and toddlers ages 0-36 months.
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Who provides early intervention services?
The Sacramento County Office of Education Infant Development Program or Alta California Regional Center provides early intervention services. After a referral is made, assessments are conducted by qualified personnel from an education agency to determine eligibility. Evaluations and assessments are shared with the family. A meeting with the family and support services providers is held to develop the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) when a child is determined eligible.
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What is an IFSP?
An Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP)
identifies the services appropriate to meet the needs of the infant or toddler. The family plays a major role in the development of the IFSP. The IFSP is a written document that includes family priorities, concerns, resources, major outcomes, service coordination, and a transition plan.
