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An Introduction to Special Education

At Lynwood Unified School District, we are committed to meeting the educational needs of every student. Each school has a collaborative process in place to support students who may be facing challenges that impact their learning.

What is Special Education?

Special education is a program designed to meet the unique learning needs of children with disabilities who qualify under state and federal guidelines. These services are tailored to support academic, social, emotional, and developmental growth and may begin as early as birth and continue through age 22.

A student may qualify for special education services under one or more of the following eligibility categories:

  • Speech or Language Impairment

  • Specific Learning Disability

  • Other Health Impairment (chronic or acute health condition affecting strength, alertness, or vitality)

  • Emotional Disturbance

  • Intellectual Disability

  • Autism

  • Orthopedic Impairment

  • Deafness

  • Deaf-Blindness

  • Hearing Impairment

  • Visual Impairment (including blindness)

  • Traumatic Brain Injury

  • Multiple Disabilities

Services and supports are determined through an Individualized Education Program (IEP) developed by a team that includes parents/guardians and school professionals.

Supporting Every Student's Success

When a student experiences challenges that affect their ability to learn, each school initiates a collaborative process called the Student Study Team (SST).

The SST includes the parent or guardian, the student (when appropriate), and school personnel. Together, the team identifies the student’s needs and develops a plan using available general education supports and interventions.

If concerns persist and more specialized services may be needed, the SST may recommend a formal evaluation to determine eligibility for special education. The IEP Team—made up of family members and educational professionals—will assess the student and determine whether they qualify for special education services. These services are only provided after all general education resources have been considered.

Section 504 Accommodations

Some students may not qualify for special education but may still require support in the classroom. Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, students with disabilities are entitled to reasonable accommodations that help them access the general education curriculum.

To begin the process, a parent or teacher can submit a written request for a Section 504 evaluation to the school administrator. If the student is found eligible, a plan may be created that includes classroom modifications, support strategies, and other accommodations.

Families are notified when the evaluation meeting will take place and are encouraged to participate in the decision-making process.

Our goal is to ensure every student has access to the tools and support they need to reach their full potential. For questions about the SST process, Special Education services, or Section 504, please contact your school or the District’s Special Education Department.