Short Cut:  Introduction Resources Specialist Program Special Day Class Life Skills Other Services SELPA Community Advisory Committee

Introduction: There are a number of Special Education Programs at Soquel High which serve many individuals with a wide range of skills and abilities. A primary goal of these programs is to support students in the least restrictive environment. Special Education Programs are available to students who meet state and federal criteria for special education services. All special education programs require and Individualized Education Plan (IEP) as defined by IDEA. Only students with an active IEP may receive Special Education Services.

Resource Specialist Program
There are a number of Special Education Programs at Soquel High which serve many individuals with a wide range of skills and abilities. A primary goal of these programs is to support students in the least restrictive environment. Special Education Programs are available to students who meet state and federal criteria for special education services. All special education programs require and Individualized Education Plan (IEP) as defined by IDEA. Only students with an active IEP may receive Special Education Services.

Special Day Class
The Special Day Class offers courses in English, Math, Social Studies, Science and Tutorial. Students may participate in regular classes (including electives) as determined by IEPs and skill levels (with the student spending the majority of the school day in courses offered through this plan). Obtaining work experience is emphasized, with the ultimate goal of completing the high school experience by obtaining a Certificate of Completion and then being ready for fulltime employment.

Life Skills
The Life Skills Class is a full day program that emphasizes the functional skills needed to achieve maximum levels of independence for each of the students enrolled in the program. Students participate in community and school based learning experiences that enrich their lives in the curricular areas of work training, home living, recreation and leisure. Additionally, students are enrolled in English and math classes to provide essential communication and mathematical skills.

Other Services
Depending upon the student’s IEP, there may be additional programs and services offered in support of the student.

Special Education Local Plan Area - SELPA

A SELPA is a state-mandated association that provides for all the special education service needs of children residing within the regional boundaries. There are approximately 120 SELPAs in California. Each SELPA develops a local plan describing how it provides special education services. Go to www.nsccselpa.org for more information.

Community Advisory Committee

The Community Advisory Committee of North Santa Cruz County is composed of volunteer parents of children with special needs, special educators, and other interested community members who seek to support children with special needs education. The CAC hold a meeting once a month. General business meetings are held every two months. On the alternate month, the CAC offers workshops regarding special education topics which often include guest speakers. All meeting and workshops are free of charge and are open to everyone, including parents of children with and without disabilities, educators and agency representatives. For current scheduling information visit the SELPA website at www.nsccsselpa.org and follow the link to the CAC. Also available in Spanish.