Check out the recent press release about Special Education!
Whether you're new to special education, the San Diego Unified School District (SDUSD), or just discovering the CAC, welcome! We’re here to help you feel informed, connected, and empowered.
The Community Advisory Committee (CAC) for Special Education is a parent-led group that works with SDUSD to:
Share parent perspectives with decision-makers
Advocate for system-wide improvements
Help families feel informed and included
You don’t need to be an expert or a formal member to participate. If you’re a parent or caregiver of a student who receives special education services in SDUSD, you already belong here.
Here are the first steps we recommend:
✅ Step 1: Join our Email List
So you don’t miss important meeting dates, events, or updates.
👉 [Join Here – Takes 30 seconds]
✅ Step 2: Learn Your Rights
Every parent has legal rights under IDEA. Start with:
✅ Step 3: Attend a CAC Meeting
You’ll hear real updates and real stories from other parents—and you’ll be surprised how often your questions are shared by others.
👉 [Attend a Meeting – Calendar & Zoom link]
We know this journey can feel overwhelming. You’re not alone.
🌱 Mentorship Program (Coming Soon!)
We’re pairing experienced parents with those new to the process.
🧭 Parent Liaisons (Coming Soon!)
If you're stuck or not sure where to turn, we’re building a team to help navigate IEPs, evaluations, and more.
💬 Language Access
Translation is available for meetings and documents. Let us know what you need.
There’s no one “right way” to participate. Try any of the following:
Become a CAC member (no experience needed!)
Share public comment at a meeting
Join our resource-building or outreach teams
Start a parent group at your school—we’ll help
Here are some fast facts that new parents have told us helped:
You can bring someone with you to IEP meetings.
You don’t have to agree to everything in the meeting.
You can request an IEP meeting at any time.
You deserve to feel heard, supported, and informed.
We know how much energy it takes to keep showing up for your child, especially when the system wasn’t designed with families like ours in mind. We’re working to change that. If no one’s told you lately, you’re doing an amazing job.
- Sarah Kieffer, CAC Chair