Introduction California’s system for overseeing Nonpublic Agencies (NPAs) and related school support organizations no longer reflects the realities of how special-education services are delivered. [1] NPAs provide targeted, specialized supports essential to implementing Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), including speech therapy, behavioral intervention, occupational therapy, and counseling. Although NPAs operate as vendors contracted by LEAs, they are currently regula

CAPSES and CA Alliance  Public Comment and Formal Position CAPSES and CACFS Opposition to Proposed Amendments to CCR Section 3043(d): Reduction of ESY Minimum Days from 20 to 15 Submitted to: California State Board of Education45-Day Public Comment Period on Extended School Year (ESY) Waivers Regulations Introduction The California Association of Private Special Education Services (CAPSES) and the California Alliance of Child and Family Services (CA Alliance) respectfully sub

As we begin a new quarter, I’m filled with gratitude for the momentum our community continues to build together. Across California, nonpublic schools and agencies are doing extraordinary work to support students with disabilities, work that is only possible when we stay grounded in our shared purpose and the values that guide us forward.     This year, CAPSES has more clearly articulated those beliefs: that our system must evolve to provide equitable access and sustainable fu

Joint Statement on the Elimination of OSEP and the Future of IDEA Oversight   Over the weekend, the Department of Education (DOE) executed a sweeping dismantling of its Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) by issuing Reduction in Force notices that will terminate the positions of all but 2 or 3 OSEP staff. This move effectively eliminates the federal body responsible for distributing the $15 billion annual Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) funding and