Welcome to Special Education Services – Menifee Union School District

At Menifee Union School District, we are committed to ensuring that every student identified with an IEP receives the appropriate individualized support and services as determined by the IEP team. Special education is a service designed to meet the unique learning needs of our students identified with an IEP with appropriate instruction, support, and accommodations.

What is Special Education?

Special education provides specially designed instruction and related services for students who qualify under one or more of the 13 disability categories defined by federal law. These services are guided by an Individualized Education Program (IEP), which is developed in collaboration with families, educators, and specialists to ensure students can access and benefit from their education.

Laws That Govern Special Education

Special education is protected and guided by the following key laws:

• Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA): A federal law that ensures eligible children with disabilities receive a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE).

• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973: Prohibits discrimination based on disability and ensures access to accommodations for students who may not require special education but need support.

• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): A broader civil rights law that protects individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including schools.

These laws ensure that every student receives equitable access to education, tailored to their individual needs.

Continuum of Program Options

Menifee Union School District offers a continuum of special education services to meet the diverse needs of our students. This includes:

• General Education with Support: Some students receive services such as speech therapy or resource support while remaining in the general education classroom.

• Push-In and Pull-Out Services: Special education teachers or specialists may support students directly in the classroom or in a separate setting for part of the day.

• Specialized Academic Instruction (SAI) Classes: These settings provide intensive support for core academic areas.

• Special Day Classes (SDC): Designed for students who require more significant support in smaller, specialized settings.

• Related Services: Such as occupational therapy, counseling, behavior intervention, or adapted physical education, based on student needs.

Understanding the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)

One of the foundational principles of IDEA is that students with disabilities should be educated alongside their non-disabled peers to the greatest extent appropriate. This is referred to as the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). Decisions about placement are made by the IEP team, based on a student’s unique needs, with the goal of providing the most inclusive setting that supports meaningful progress.

Free Appropriate Public Education

FAPE stands for Free Appropriate Public Education. It’s a key part of the federal law known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and it protects the rights of students with disabilities.  

FAPE means that your child has the right to:

• Attend public school at no cost to you

• Receive special education and related services that are tailored to the individual needs of the student 

• Learn in the least restrictive environment—meaning with their peers to the greatest extent appropriate

• Make meaningful educational progress, not just be present at school

If you ever have questions about your child’s rights or IEP, your school’s special education team is here to support you.