The California Department of Education is seeking public comments

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The California Department of Education (CDE) is proposing changes to special education regulations in two separate areas. These proposals are not final. Families, educators, and community members are encouraged to share input during the public comment periods

Early Start regulations

CDE is proposing changes to Early Start regulations for infants and toddlers under age 3. Currently, school districts and regional centers use different eligibility criteria, which can be confusing for families. The proposed changes would align eligibility rules across both systems and update terminology by replacing the term “emotional disturbance” with “emotional disability.” Learn more via the CDE website.

You can share your comments by:

  • Attending the virtual public hearing on Tuesday, January 20 at 9:00 am. Join the meeting with this link.
    Meeting ID: 895 5173 4411
    Passcode: 501129
  • Sending a written comment via email regcomments@cde.ca.gov or by fax 916-322-2549.
    Written comments must be received by Tuesday, January 20.
  • Mail a written comment to
    Lorie Adame, Regulations Coordinator
    Administrative Support and Regulations Adoption Unit
    California Department of Education
    1430 N Street, Room 5319
    Sacramento, CA 95814

Extended School Year (ESY) regulations

CDE has also proposed changes to Extended School Year (ESY) regulations. Under current rules, ESY services must be provided for at least 20 instructional days. The proposed changes would allow school districts to offer an alternate ESY schedule of at least 15 instructional days, provided required instructional hours are met for each grade level. The proposal would also establish minimum daily instructional minutes by grade. These changes are open to public comment. Learn more on the CDE website.

  • Attending the virtual public hearing on Tuesday, January 27 at 9:00 am. Join the meeting with this link.
    Meeting ID: 845 8700 1075
    Passcode: 672070
  • Sending a written comment via email regcomments@cde.ca.gov or by fax 916-322-2549.
    Written comments must be received by Tuesday, January 27.
  • Mail a written comment to
    Lorie Adame, Regulations Coordinator
    Administrative Support and Regulations Adoption Unit
    California Department of Education
    1430 N Street, Room 5319
    Sacramento, CA 95814