Special Education

January 8, 2021

Gov. Newsom proposes $4.6 billion for summer school, more learning time in 2021-22 budget

The budget would provide billions for K-12 schools and early education after paying off most of the short-term debt owed from this year’s budget.

John Fensterwald

August 17, 2020

As school starts, California districts try to improve virtual special education

Parents are skeptical that distance learning will ever work for children with disabilities.

Carolyn Jones

August 7, 2020

Why special education funding will be more equitable under new state law

The state plans to spend an additional $650 million on special education under new law.

Carolyn Jones

June 26, 2020

Special education would get big boost under Biden proposal

Full funding, teacher recruitment and early childhood programs are included in a wide-ranging disability platform.

Carolyn Jones

May 27, 2020

Virtual special education meetings popular in some districts, but a major hurdle in others

At some schools, online parent meetings have been nearly impossible.

Carolyn Jones

May 1, 2020

California parents of special education students find ways to cope with unique challenges during school closures

With no routine and limited access to services, students and their families are feeling stressed and overwhelmed.

Carolyn Jones

April 27, 2020

Federal special education law must stay intact during school closures, DeVos says

School districts had asked for temporary waivers from special education law to avoid lawsuits from parents.

Carolyn Jones

April 17, 2020

California should push harder for special education during school closures, disability rights groups say

The California Department of Education has provided guidance for districts, schools, teachers and parents of students in special education.

Carolyn Jones

April 10, 2020

New website offers tips for teachers about virtual special education

Teachers can share ideas and resources for serving special education students online.

Carolyn Jones

April 7, 2020

Disability rights groups, school administrators spar over possible changes to special education laws

U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos may recommend special education changes to Congress.

Carolyn Jones

April 3, 2020

Communication, persistence are key for teaching special education online

Tips, advice, and encouragement were offered at the state's first webinar on special education during school closures.

Carolyn Jones

April 1, 2020

Special education inconsistent in California school districts during closures

Some have already launched online learning, while others are still in the planning phase.

Carolyn Jones

March 24, 2020

Despite assurances of flexibility, educators fear liability in online instruction of special ed students 

Some districts had cut back on services for disabled students out of fear of lawsuits over equity.

Carolyn Jones

March 20, 2020

Proposed coronavirus federal aid package could disrupt special education

Senate bill could open the door for districts to waive federal special education law.

Carolyn Jones

March 19, 2020

California students enrolled in special education face unique burdens during school closure

The loss of specialized services and daily routine poses challenges for California’s 800,000 students in special education.

Carolyn Jones