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Welcome to Mission Valley SELPA

Welcome to the Mission Valley Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA).

At Mission Valley SELPA, we believe every individual has the right to learn, grow, participate, and be valued as a contributing member of the community. We are committed to ensuring that students with disabilities are supported with dignity, respect, and access to meaningful educational opportunities.

We recognize that families are essential partners in a student’s educational journey. Parents, guardians, and caregivers bring valuable knowledge and insight that strengthen our ability to develop effective special education programs and services. Through collaboration, communication, and shared commitment, we work together to support the unique needs and goals of every student.

We invite you to explore our website to learn more about Mission Valley SELPA, our resources, services, and the ways we support students with disabilities, their families, and our school communities.

Sarah Kappler
Mission Valley SELPA Director

What is a Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA)?

SELPA stands for Special Education Local Plan Area.

A SELPA is a regional partnership established to ensure that students with disabilities have access to a full continuum of appropriate special education services and supports. In 1977, California required all school districts and county offices of education to organize into regional areas to develop coordinated plans for delivering special education programs and services.

Each SELPA develops and maintains a Local Plan, which outlines how special education services are provided within the region in alignment with federal and state laws and regulations.

Our Commitment

Mission Valley SELPA is committed to the belief that all students can learn, grow, and achieve meaningful success. We strive to ensure that students with disabilities receive equitable opportunities, quality educational programs, and the support needed to become confident and contributing members of their communities.

Through collaboration with school districts, families, educators, and community partners, SELPAs support:

High-quality special education programs and services.
Professional learning and support for educators.
Resources and guidance for families.
Collaborative partnerships that promote student success and well-being.

Mission Valley SELPA works together with its member districts and community partners to create inclusive, supportive, and enriching educational environments where students with disabilities and their families can thrive.

About Mission Valley SELPA

The Mission Valley Special Education Local Plan Area (MV SELPA) is a collaborative partnership among three school districts:

Fremont Unified School District
New Haven Unified School District
Newark Unified School District

Mission Valley SELPA was established to ensure that students with disabilities throughout the region have access to a comprehensive continuum of high-quality special education programs and services. Through collaboration and shared resources, the member districts work together to support students, families, and educators in meeting the unique needs of each learner.

Special education leaders from each district regularly collaborate to coordinate programs, share resources, address regional priorities, and support the effective delivery of special education services across the SELPA.

Mission Statement

Mission Valley SELPA believes that all students can learn and achieve success. Our mission is to support students receiving special education services in reaching their highest potential through access to meaningful educational opportunities and individualized supports.

To fulfill this mission, Mission Valley SELPA provides:

Information and resources for students and families.
Support and guidance for educators and school staff.
Collaboration among member districts to strengthen special education programs and services.
Leadership in promoting equitable access and positive outcomes for students with disabilities.

Together, Mission Valley SELPA and its member districts are committed to creating supportive learning environments where every student can grow, participate, and succeed.

Mission Valley SELPA Contacts

The Mission Valley SELPA team is available to provide information, resources, and support related to special education programs, services, and SELPA activities.

Contact Information

Sarah Kappler
Mission Valley SELPA Director
Mission Valley SELPA Contacts

The Mission Valley SELPA team is available to provide information, resources, and support related to special education programs, services, and SELPA activities.

Contact Information

Sarah Kappler
Mission Valley SELPA Director skappler@nhusd.k12.ca.us

Cosette El Hajj
Mission Valley SELPA Secretary celhajj@fusdk12.net

Shared Programs Across Mission Valley SELPA

Mission Valley SELPA member districts collaborate to provide shared programs and services that support students with disabilities across the region. These partnerships allow districts to maximize resources, expand opportunities, and ensure students have access to specialized services that meet their individual needs.

Infant Services

Fremont Unified School District provides early intervention services for infants residing within all three Mission Valley SELPA member districts.

Contact:
Allison Warner
awarner@fusdk12.net

Transition Partnership Program (TPP)

Fremont Unified School District provides transition services for eligible students from all three Mission Valley SELPA member districts. The Transition Partnership Program (TPP) supports students as they prepare for life after high school, including pathways toward employment and adult independence.

Contact:
Lorraine Neira
lneira@fusdk12.net

Special Olympics School Partnership Program

The Special Olympics School Partnership Program provides opportunities for students with disabilities to participate in inclusive sports, leadership, and school-based activities that promote confidence, teamwork, and community connection.

Contact:
Allison Warner
awarner@fusdk12.net

For more information about these shared programs and services, please explore the resources and links provided below.

How Can I Get Involved?

Mission Valley SELPA values the partnership and involvement of families, educators, and community members. Your voice and participation help strengthen special education programs and services for students with disabilities.

Join the Community Advisory Committee (CAC)

We invite you to learn more about the Mission Valley SELPA Community Advisory Committee (CAC) and explore opportunities to get involved. The CAC provides families and community members with a meaningful way to share input, connect with others, and support special education initiatives.

Visit our Community Advisory Committee page to learn more about membership and upcoming activities.

Stay Connected

Follow Mission Valley SELPA on Facebook for updates, resources, events, and important information.

Additional SELPA Resources

To learn more about SELPAs throughout California and access additional special education resources, visit the SELPA website across the state.

Child Find

Mission Valley SELPA and its member Local Educational Agencies (LEAs) are committed to identifying and supporting children who may need special education services.

Under the Child Find requirements of federal and state law, each LEA within Mission Valley SELPA actively works to locate, identify, and evaluate children from birth through age 21 who may have a disability and may require special education support.

Children may qualify for support if they experience challenges related to:

Communication
Learning
Physical disabilities
Significant support needs or severe disabilities

If you have concerns about your child’s development, learning, or access to educational support, please contact your child’s school or your district’s Special Education Department for assistance and information about the referral and assessment process.

Special Education Department Contacts

Fremont Unified School District
Special Education Department
(510) 659-2549

Newark Unified School District
Special Education Department
(510) 818-4103

New Haven Unified School District
Special Services Department
(510) 471-1100

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