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Plumas Lake Elementary School District

Plumas Lake Elementary School District

Special Education Services

Special Education Services

Supporting every learner, every step of the way

 
Plumas Lake Elementary School District is committed to providing inclusive, individualized support that helps every student learn, grow, and thrive. Our Special Education team partners with students, families, teachers, and service providers to develop programs and services based on each student’s unique strengths and needs.
 

Our Approach

Special education includes individualized services and supports designed to meet the unique needs of eligible students with disabilities. These services may be provided in a variety of educational settings based on each student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).
We believe all students are capable learners. Whenever appropriate, students receiving special education services learn alongside their peers in inclusive general education environments.
 

Programs and Services 

The District provides specialized academic instruction and related services for eligible students from preschool through eighth grade. Services are determined by each student’s IEP team and may include:
 
  • Specialized academic instruction
  • Speech and language services
  • School psychological services
  • Occupational therapy
  • Behavioral support
  • Paraprofessional support
  • Other services identified by the IEP team
 

Elementary and Junior High Support 

At the elementary level, students may receive specialized instruction through a learning-center model, classroom-based support, or other services identified in their IEP.
 
At the middle school level, specialists and paraprofessionals support students in general education classrooms whenever appropriate. Students may also receive targeted instruction, intervention, or reteaching based on their individual needs.
 
To contact us:

Rachel Zambrano
Coordinator of Special Education
2743 Plumas School Rd.
Plumas Lake, CA 95961
Phone: 530-743-4428
FAX: 530-743-1408
 
If you have questions about your child’s current services, begin by contacting your child’s teacher, case manager, or school principal. For general questions about special education programs or processes, contact the District’s Special Education Office.
 
 

Special Education in California 

 
The California Legislative Analyst’s Office offers four short animated videos explaining how special education services are provided, organized, and funded in California.
 
A series of four animated videos covering key aspects of special education in California. Click on the title below to view each video. 
 

 SELPA Local Plan 

 
The Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA) Local Plan outlines how participating school districts work together to provide coordinated special education programs and services. It explains how eligible students with disabilities are identified, supported, and provided access to a free appropriate public education in accordance with state and federal requirements. 
 
Review the [SELPA Local Plan (PDF)] to learn more about the policies, programs, and services available to students with disabilities.

Our Special Education Team

 
Our multidisciplinary team works collaboratively with students, families, teachers, and school staff to support each student’s academic, social-emotional, communication, behavioral, and physical development.
 
Depending on a student’s individualized needs, the team may include education specialists, school psychologists, speech-language pathologists, behavior specialists, occupational therapists, paraprofessionals, administrators, and other service providers.
Frequently Asked Questions 

Frequently Asked Questions 

1. What should I do if I am concerned about my child’s progress?
Start by contacting your child’s teacher or school principal to discuss your concerns. The school team can review your child’s progress, identify appropriate supports, and help determine possible next steps.
 
2. How is a student referred for a special education evaluation?
A parent, guardian, teacher, or other member of the school team may request that a student be considered for an evaluation. The District will review the concerns and provide information about the evaluation process and required parent or guardian consent.
 
3. What is an Individualized Education Program (IEP)?
An IEP is a written plan developed for a student who is eligible for special education services. It outlines the student’s strengths, learning needs, annual goals, services, accommodations, and educational placement.
 
4. Who participates in an IEP meeting?
The IEP team generally includes the student’s parent or guardian, general education teacher, special education teacher, a District representative, and someone qualified to explain evaluation results. Other specialists or individuals with knowledge of the student may also participate.
 
5. What is the difference between an IEP and a Section 504 Plan?
An IEP provides specialized instruction and related services for an eligible student under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. A Section 504 Plan provides accommodations and supports that help an eligible student access their education. The appropriate plan depends on the student’s individual needs and eligibility.