Community Advisory Committee
Community Advisory Committee (CAC)
Community Advisory Committees are vital components of effective Special Education programs in California. CACs have specific roles and responsibilities. Across California, many CACs are active, creative bodies that assist in advising local school districts, the Board of Education and Special Education administration about the Special Education Local Plan, annual priorities, parent education and other Special Education related activities. Every Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA) is required to establish a CAC. A SELPA is a consortium that is formed to ensure that the full continuum of Special Education services is available to all eligible students within its boundaries. It is comprised of an individual district, a group of districts, or districts and a county office(s) of education. CACs provide an important connection between the community and the SELPA.
The Community Advisory Committees responsibilities include advising the policy and administrative entity of the district, SELPA, or county office, regarding the development, amendment, and review of the Local Plan. The Local Plan describes the local policies, procedures and programs that are consistent with state laws, regulations and policies for Special Education. The CAC acts in an advisory capacity and may recommend priorities or changes to be addressed by the plan. Other responsibilities include, but need not be limited to:
- Encouraging community and parental involvement in the development, review and implementation of the Local Plan
- Supporting activities on behalf of individuals with exceptional needs
- Assisting in parent awareness of the importance of regular school attendance
- Providing families an opportunity to share resources and support
Learn more about Community Advisory Committee
CAC Archive
All CAC newsletters and campaigns can be found in the Email Campaign Archive.
To register for the CAC Newsletter please contact [email protected]