Special Ed Process

Step-by-step walkthrough of the special education journey from birth through age 22. Each step is its own page. Families can enter at any step.


Step 1 — Early intervention (0–3)

  • Part C of IDEA
  • Referral & evaluation (IFSP)
  • California Regional Centers CA
  • Lanterman Act CA
  • Transition to preschool (Part B)


Step 4 — Eligibility

  • 13 IDEA disability categories
  • Eligibility meeting process
  • 504 vs. IDEA — which applies?
  • Disagreeing with the decision
  • CA eligibility criteria





Step 7 — Disputes

  • Mediation (free & voluntary)
  • State complaint process CA
  • Due process hearing
  • Resolution session
  • Federal court
  • Letters & paper trail tips




Step 2 — Identification (3–22)

  • Child Find obligations
  • How to request an evaluation
  • School's timeline to respond
  • Prior written notice
  • Preschool special ed (3–5)


Step 5 — IEP / 504 Plan

  • What must be in an IEP
  • Goals, services & placement
  • LRE — Least Restrictive Environment
  • Related services
  • Assistive technology
  • Extended School Year (ESY)
  • 504 plan basics


Step 8 — Transition (14–22)

  • Transition planning requirements
  • Vocational rehabilitation
  • College & higher ed (504/ADA)
  • Summary of Performance
  • Future planning & adult services
  • CA Dept. of Rehab




Step 3 — Evaluation

  • Types of assessments
  • Who conducts evaluations
  • Independent Ed Evaluations (IEE)
  • Assessment timelines CA
  • Understanding test scores


Step 6 — Implementation

  • School's obligation to deliver
  • Progress monitoring
  • Annual reviews & re-evals
  • Changing schools / moving
  • Private school placements



Contact Us