An Introduction to Special Education

The Fullerton Joint Union High School District is dedicated to meeting the individual educational needs of all students. We believe that with the right support, every student can achieve academic and personal success. (Every student, every day!)

General Education Supports & Interventions

Before considering special education, schools explore all available general education resources and multi-tiered support systems.

Each campus utilizes a Student Intervention Team (SIT)—a collaborative group consisting of parents or guardians, school staff, and administrators. The SIT meets to discuss student strengths and challenges, design targeted intervention strategies, and monitor progress within the general education classroom.

Section 504 Accommodation Plans

A student who does not require specialized instruction may still qualify for classroom support under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

• Purpose: Provides accommodations and classroom modifications for students with physical or mental impairments that substantially limit major life activities.
• Process: Parents, guardians, or teachers may submit a written request to a school administrator for a Section 504 evaluation. Parents are invited to participate in the meeting to review data and establish an appropriate accommodation plan.

If general education interventions do not sufficiently meet a student's needs, the student may be evaluated for Special Education services. Special Education provides specially designed instruction at no cost to families.

Eligibility is determined by an Individualized Education Program (IEP) team composed of parents/guardians, district professionals, and the student (when appropriate) following a comprehensive assessment. In accordance with state guidelines, special education services and adult transition programs are available for eligible students through age 22.

Primary Eligibility Categories

Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and California Education Code, a student may qualify for special education under one of 13 primary eligibility categories:

• Autism
• Deaf-Blindness
• Deafness
• Emotional Disability (interchangeable with Emotional Disturbance under California law)
• Hearing Impairment
• Intellectual Disability
• Multiple Disabilities
• Orthopedic Impairment
• Other Health Impairment (chronic or acute health conditions impacting strength, vitality, or alertness)
• Specific Learning Disability
• Speech or Language Impairment
• Traumatic Brain Injury
• Visual Impairment (including blindness)

For questions regarding special education services or the evaluation process at your school site, please contact your school counselor, administrator, or the FJUHSD Educational Services Department.

Last Modified on July 31, 2026