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California Special Education Timelines

Key deadlines every parent should know when navigating the IEP process

1
Day 0

You Request an Assessment

Put your request in writing. The clock starts when the school receives it. Keep a copy for your records.

2
15 school days

School Sends You an Assessment Plan

The district must provide a written assessment plan within 15 school days of your request (not counting school breaks).

3
15 calendar days to review

You Review and Sign the Plan

You have at least 15 calendar days to review, ask questions, and decide whether to give consent. Never feel rushed.

4
60 calendar days

Assessments Completed + IEP Meeting Held

Once you sign, the district has 60 calendar days (not counting breaks longer than 5 school days) to complete testing, hold the IEP meeting, and develop a plan.

5
Every 12 months

Annual Plan Review

Your child's IEP must be reviewed at least once a year. You can request a review at any time, and the school has 30 days to hold it.

6
Every 3 years

Eligibility Evaluation

Every three years, your child is reassessed to determine ongoing eligibility and update the IEP with current data.

Other Important Deadlines

30 days for the school to hold an IEP meeting after your written request
5 business days to receive copies of your child's records
10 school days for a Manifestation Determination after a suspension exceeds 10 days
15 days for a resolution session after filing due process
2 years to file a due process complaint from the date you knew of the issue
60 days for CDE to investigate and resolve a state compliance complaint

You are not just invited to the table. You have a legal right to be there, to be heard, and to shape your child's education.

Rooted Minds

Helping families understand their rights and advocate for their children with confidence.

Created by Rooted Minds · rootedmindsproject.org

Read the full Parental Rights guide