SELPA

What is a Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA)?

A Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA) is a structure established under California law to ensure that all students with disabilities have access to a full range of special education services.

In 1977, California required school districts and county offices of education to form SELPAs to coordinate services regionally and ensure that every student—regardless of where they live—can receive appropriate support. Each SELPA develops a Local Plan that describes how special education services are provided, funded, and monitored.

While many SELPAs are made up of multiple districts working together, the Santa Ana Unified School District operates as a single-district SELPA. This means the district is directly responsible for planning, delivering, and evaluating all special education programs and services.

Our Role as a SELPA

As a single-district SELPA, Santa Ana Unified School District:

Provides a full continuum of services to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities
Develops and implements the district’s Local Plan for Special Education
Ensures compliance with state and federal laws, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
Promotes meaningful parent participation in the educational process
Provides training and support for educators and families
Manages special education funding and resources
Supports early dispute resolution and collaborative problem-solving

Legal Foundation of Special Education

Special education services are guided by key federal and state laws that protect the rights of students with disabilities, including:

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 – Prohibits discrimination and ensures access to education for individuals with disabilities
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) – Guarantees special education services for eligible students
California’s Master Plan for Special Education – Implements federal law at the state level

These laws ensure that students are entitled to:

Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) at no cost to families
Education in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)
An Individualized Education Program (IEP) tailored to their unique needs
Parent participation and due process rights
Identification and support through Child Find

Our Commitment

The Santa Ana Unified School District SELPA is committed to ensuring equitable access, high-quality instruction, and meaningful inclusion for all students with disabilities. We believe every student can learn and deserves the opportunity to succeed as an active and contributing member of their community.

For more information and each SELPA’s contact information, please go to http://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/se/as/caselpas.asp

California’s Special Education Local Plan Areas (SELPAs) Brochure