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.