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Special Education » Timelines

Timelines

The Special Education Roadmap: Referral to Placement

Note: These timelines are strictly governed by CA Ed Code § 56321 and 56344.

 

Step 1: The Referral (Day 0)

A written request for evaluation is submitted by a parent, teacher, or agency.

  • The Clock Starts: The District has 15 calendar days to provide an Assessment Plan or a Prior Written Notice (PWN) denying the request.

 

Step 2: Parent Consent (Up to 15 Days)

The parent reviews the Assessment Plan and signs it.

  • Legal Note: Evaluations cannot begin until the district receives a signed copy of this plan.

 

Step 3: The Assessment Period (60-Day Clock)

Once the signed plan is received, the District has 60 calendar days (not including school breaks over 5 days) to complete all assessments and hold the initial IEP meeting.

  • Assessments: May include psychology, speech, OT, academic, and health.

 

Step 4: The Initial IEP Meeting

The team (including the parents) meets to review results. Two questions are answered:

  1. Does the student have a qualifying disability?

  2. Does the disability require specialized instruction?

 

Step 5: Implementation & Placement

If eligible, an IEP is developed. Once the parent signs "Consent for Initial Placement," services begin immediately.

  • Review: The IEP is reviewed at least annually, and the student is re-evaluated at least every three years (Triennial).