How Does the IEP Process Work in California?
Short answer: California special education is governed by Education Code 56300. Key rights include the strict "15-60" timeline for assessments, the ability to record meetings with 24-hour notice, and the right to an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) if you disagree with district testing.
California IEP Quick Facts
| Response to Request | 15 calendar days (to provide assessment plan) |
| Evaluation Timeline | 60 calendar days (from signed consent) |
| Recording Meetings | Legal with 24-hour written notice |
| Local Agency | SELPA (Special Education Local Plan Area) |
| Dispute Resolution | OAH (Office of Administrative Hearings) |
How do I request an evaluation (The 15-60 Rule)?
Short answer: Submit a written request to the principal. The district has 15 calendar days to give you an Assessment Plan. Once you sign and return that plan, the district has 60 calendar days to complete testing and hold the IEP meeting.
What is a SELPA?
Short answer: SELPA stands for Special Education Local Plan Area. Because some districts are small, they band together into a SELPA to pool resources. Your SELPA determines funding distribution and provides the expensive specialists or programs that a single school might not afford.
Can I record an IEP meeting in CA?
Short answer: Yes. Education Code 56341.1 gives parents the right to audio record. You must notify the district in writing at least 24 hours in advance. If you forget to notify them, they can legally prevent you from recording.
Can I get an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)?
Short answer: Yes. If you disagree with the district's evaluation, you can request an IEE in writing. The district generally has two choices: fund the IEE at public expense or file for a Due Process hearing to defend their own evaluation. They cannot simply say "no" or ignore you.
How do I file a complaint in California?
Short answer: For timeline violations (compliance), file a CDE Compliance Complaint with the California Department of Education. For disagreements about services or eligibility (FAPE), file for Due Process with the Office of Administrative Hearings (OAH).
California-Specific Terms Parents Should Know
- NPA (Non-Public Agency)
- Means: A private company (like a speech clinic) that the district pays to provide services when they don't have staff available.
- NPS (Non-Public School)
- Means: A specialized private school for students with disabilities, paid for by the district/SELPA when public placement isn't sufficient.
- OAH (Office of Administrative Hearings)
- Means: The legal body that handles special education due process cases and mediations in California.
Common California Questions
Does California test for dyslexia?
Yes. SB 237 mandates that starting in the 2025-26 school year, all students in grades K-2 must be screened for risk of dyslexia. However, you can request a comprehensive evaluation for dyslexia at any age.
Can I bring an attorney to an IEP meeting?
Yes, but you must notify the district. If you bring an attorney, the district will automatically bring their attorney, which can make the meeting more adversarial. Many parents bring a non-attorney advocate instead.
What should CA parents do next?
- Submit the request. Email the principal today. The 15-day clock starts the moment they receive it.
- Find your SELPA. Google "[Your District] SELPA" to find their website and parent handbook (the "Local Plan").
- Draft your recording notice. Keep a template ready so you can send it 24 hours before every meeting.