Education
Update: March, 2021
The resources listed below were last verified and updated in February, 2021. Many of these resources have been added to One Degree, a free interactive resource platform that verifies contact information every 6 months.
Please click HERE to check out our page on One Degree for our compiled list of resources.
Quick links to the corresponding individual resource lists for Education on One Degree:
Pediatric health care providers can play an important role in ensuring children’s right to a free and public education across all educational settings, including K-12 and higher educational institutions. In Los Angeles County, there are 80 K-12 districts in which immigrant children can choose to attend school. Immigrant adults can choose to enroll in community colleges from the 13 community college districts across Los Angeles County. Accessing an education is essential for the social well-being of children, youth, and their families. In this Education section, information about the various school and community college districts is provided. There is also information about the general enrollment process (which can vary depending on the schools in which you are seeking enrollment). We also provide information about the rights of K-12 students and their families in schools. There are a variety of resources within schools and in the community that can assist with children’s language, academic, and socio-emotional development.
Education in American is by law a unanimous right that requires schools and districts to give students opportunities to partake in all programs and activities. In California, every child residing in the state qualifies for free education. Though public school is generally for children ages 5-18, children with special educational needs can receive free education services from ages 0 to 21.
Immigrant youth can receive a free, public school education regardless of their legal status.
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Plyler vs. Doe (457 U.S. 202 (1982)) that undocumented children and young adults have the same right to attend public primary and secondary schools as do U.S. citizens and permanent residents.1 Like other children, undocumented students are obliged under state law to attend school until they reach a mandated age. As a result of the Plyler ruling, public schools may not:
- Deny admission to a student during initial enrollment or at any other time on the basis of undocumented status.
- Treat a student differently to determine residency.
- Engage in any practices to "chill" the right of access to school.
- Require students or parents to disclose or document their immigration status.
- Make inquiries of students or parents that may expose their undocumented status.
- Require social security numbers from all students, as this may expose undocumented status.
- Adults without social security numbers who are applying for a free lunch and/or breakfast program on behalf of a student need only indicate on the application that they do not have a social security number.
Families should also note that the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) prohibits schools from providing any outside agency – including the ICE agency – with any information from a child’s school file that would expose the student’s undocumented status.2 The only exception is when a school district is required by a judicial order or a subpoena signed by a judge to disclose information to ICE officials. If a school receives such a request, they can still seek review by legal counsel and take appropriate action to potentially challenge the subpoena. For more information, please visit American Civil Liberties Union FAQ For Educators On Immigrant Students In Public Schools.3
The enrollment process varies across school districts in Los Angeles county. Families should call the district to verify if they can enroll their children in their neighborhood school or if they must enroll them at an enrollment center. Additionally, there are no deadlines for local public school enrollments, however charter schools may have admissions deadlines. Families have the right to ask for assistance from an interpreter if they cannot speak English for help with the enrollment process.4
In most cases, families should be able to provide the following documents to be able to enroll their children in K-12 public schools:
- Proof of Residency (utility bill, letter from shelter, hotel/motel receipt, resident affidavit)
- Immunization/Health Records (records from school or social service, exemption form)
- Birth Certificate (birth certificate, baptismal record, passport, immigration certificate)
- School Records (telephone or fax from previous school) if previously enrolled in another school(s)
For more information concerning the rights of children enrolling in school at the federal level, please go to visit the U.S. Department of Education FAQ for School Districts and Parents on the Enrollment Process.5
Below is an example of the steps families in Los Angeles Unified School District take to enroll their child(ren).6
- Parents/guardians can visit the school’s main office to obtain an enrollment packet.
- Parents/guardians will need an enrollment packet for each child.
- Parent/guardian will need to submit a copy of the student’s birth certificate/passport, record, proof of residency, and parent/guardian identification card/passport along with completed enrollment forms.
- Children must have required immunization before they can attend school in California.
- School staff will provide affidavits for any missing but required documents at the time of enrollment.
- The following affidavits will be provided by school staff as an alternative documentation and placed in the students cumulative record once process had been completed:
- Affidavit to Verify Residence
- ii. Affidavit of Temporary Residence
- Affidavit for Proof of Age of Minor
- Affidavit of Parent/Legal Guardian Information
- Caregiver Authorization Affidavit
- Parents/guardians can seek assistance with completing enrollment forms from school staff or contact the School Enrollment Placement and Assessment (S.E.P.A.) Center at (213) 482-3954.
- Once the Parent/guardian has completed the enrollment forms and the child has obtained all necessary vaccines, parents must immediately report back to the main office to submit paperwork to begin enrollment.
The California Education Code 48200 regarding Compulsory Full-time Education states that each person between the ages of 6 and 18 years not exempted under provision of this chapter is subject to compulsory full-time education. Each parent, guardian, or other person having control or charge of such pupil shall send the pupil to the public full-time day school or continuation school or classes for the full-time designated as the length of the school day.
Students who miss more than 30 minutes of instruction without an excuse three times during the school year must be classified as a truant and reported to the proper school authority. Parents/Guardians and children can face consequences and penalties if the student continues to be truant. For more information, please visit California’s Department of Education Attendance & Truancy.7 Families are also encouraged to contact their attendance clerk at their school (district).
Resource | SPA |
---|---|
Los Angeles County Office of Education 9300 Imperial Highway Downey, CA 90242 Phone: (562) 922-6111 | 7 |
Acton-Agua Dulce Unified School District 32248 Crown Valley Rd. Acton, CA 93510 Phone: (661) 269-0750 Fax: (661)-269-0849 | 1 |
Antelope Valley Union High School District 44811 North Sierra Hwy Lancaster, CA 93534 Phone: (661) 948-7655 Fax: (661) 942- 8744 | 1 |
Eastside Union School District 44938 30th Street East Lancaster, CA 93535 Phone: (661) 952-1200 Ext. 8201 Fax: (661) 952-1232 | 1 |
Gorman Joint School District 49847 Gorman School Road, P.O. Box 104 Gorman, CA 93243 Phone: (661) 248-6441 Fax: (661) 248-6849 | 1 |
Keppel Union School District 34004 128th Street East - PO Box 186 Pearblossom, CA 93553 Phone: (661) 944-2155 Fax: (661) 944-2933 | 1 |
Lancaster School District 44711 Cedar Ave. Lancaster, CA 93534 Phone: (661) 948-4661 Fax: (661) 942-9452 | 1 |
Palmdale School District 39139 10th Street East Palmdale, CA 93550 Phone: (661) 947-7191 | 1 |
Westside Union School District 41914 50th Street West Quartz Hill, CA 93536 Phone: (661) 722-0716 | 1 |
Wilsona School District 18050 E. Avenue O Palmdale, CA 93591 Phone: (661) 264-1111 Fax: (661) 261-3259 | 1 |
Burbank Unified School District 1900 W. Olive Ave Burbank, CA 91506 Phone: (818) 729-4400 Fax: (818) 729-4483 | 2 |
Castic Union School District 28131 Livingston Ave. Valencia, CA 91355 Phone: (661) 257-4500 Fax: (661) 257-5737 | 2 |
Glendale Unified School District 223 North Jackson Street Glendale, CA 91206 Phone: (818) 241-3111 Fax: (818) 546-2101 | 2 |
Hughes-Elizabeth Lakes Union Elementary 16633 Elizabeth Lake Rd. Lake Hughes, CA 93532-0600 Phone: (661) 724-1231 Ext. 302 Fax: (661) 724-1485 | 2 |
La Cañada Unified School District 4490 Cornishon Ave. La Cañada, CA 91011 Phone: (818) 952-8300 Fax: (818) 952-8309 | 2 |
Las Virgenes Unified School District 4111 Las Virgenes Road Calabasas, CA 91302 Phone: (818) 880-4000 Fax: (818) 880-4200 | 2 |
Newhall School District 25375 Orchard Village Road Valencia, CA 91355 Phone: (661) 291-4000 Fax: (661) 291-4001 | 2 |
Saugus Union School District 24930 Avenue Stanford Santa Clarita, CA 91355 Phone: (661) 294-5300 | 2 |
Sulphur Springs Union School District 27000 Weyerhaeuser Way Santa Clarita, CA 91351 Phone: (661) 252-5131 | 2 |
William S. Hart Union High School District 21380 Centre Pointe Parkway Santa Clarita, CA 91350 Phone: (661) 259-0033 Fax: (661) 254-8653 | 2 |
Alhambra Unified School District 1515 West Mission Road Alhambra, CA 91803 Phone: (626) 943-3000 | 3 |
Arcadia Unified School District 150 S 3rd Ave. Arcadia, CA 91006 Phone: (626) 821-8300 Fax: (626) 821-8647 | 3 |
Azusa Unified School District 546 S. Citrus Ave. Azusa, California 91702 Phone: (626) 967-6211 Fax: (626) 858-6123 | 3 |
Baldwin Park Unified School District 3699 North Holly Avenue Baldwin Park, CA 91706 Phone: (626) 962-3311 Fax: (626) 856-4901 | 3 |
Bassett Unified School District 904 N. Willow Ave. La Puente, CA 91746 Phone: (626) 931-3000 Fax: (626) 931-3020 | 3 |
Bonita Unified School District 115 W. Allen Ave. San Dimas, CA 91733 Phone: (909) 971-8200 Fax: (909) 971-8329 | 3 |
Charter Oak Unified School District 20240 E. Cienega Ave. Covina, CA 91724 Phone: (626) 966-8331 Ext. 90501 Fax: (626) 967-9580 | 3 |
Claremont Unified School District 170 W. San Jose Ave. Claremont, CA 91711 Phone: (909) 398-0609 Fax: (909) 621-0180 | 3 |
Covina-Valley Unified School District 519 E. Badillo St. Covina, CA 91723 Phone: (626) 974-7000 Fax: (626) 974-7032 | 3 |
Duarte Unified School District 1620 Huntington Drive Duarte, CA 91010 Phone: (626) 599-5000 Fax: (626) 599-5069 | 3 |
El Monte City School District 3540 North Lexington Ave. El Monte, CA 91731 Phone: (626) 453-3700 Fax: (626) 442-1063 | 3 |
El Monte Union High School District 3537 Johnson Ave. El Monte, CA 91731 Phone: (626) 444-9005 Fax: (626) 350-1095 | 3 |
Garvey School District 2730 N. Del Mar Rosemead, CA 91770 Phone: (626) 307-3400 Ext. 2103 Fax: (626) 307-1964 | 3 |
Glendora Unified School District 500 N. Loraine Ave. Glendora, CA 91741 Phone: (626) 963-1611 Fax: (626) 335-2196 | 3 |
Hacienda La Puente Unified School District 15959 E. Gale Ave. City Of Industry, CA 91745 Phone: (626) 933-1000 Fax: (626) 333-6313 | 3 |
Monrovia Unified School District 325 E. Huntington Drive Monrovia, CA 91016 Phone: (626) 471-2000 Fax: (626) 471-2077 | 3 |
Mountain View School District 3320 Gilman Rd. El Monte, CA 91732 Phone: (626) 652-4000 | 3 |
Pasadena Unified School District 351 S. Hudson Ave. Pasadena, CA 91109 Phone: (626) 396-3600 Fax: (626) 795-5309 | 3 |
Pomona Unified School District 800 S. Garey Ave. Pomona, CA 91766 Phone: (909) 397-4800 Fax: (909) 397-4881 | 3 |
Rosemead School Districts 3907 Rosemead Blvd. Rosemead, CA 91770 Phone: (626) 312-2900 Fax: (626) 312-2906 | 3 |
Rowland Unified School District 1830 Nogales Street Rowland Heights, CA 91748 Phone: (626) 965-2541 Fax: (626) 854-8302 | 3 |
San Gabriel Unified School District 408 Junipero Serra Dr. San Gabriel, CA 91776-1894 Phone: (626) 451-5400 Fax: (626) 451-5494 | 3 |
San Marino Unified School District 1665 West Drive San Marino, CA 91108 Phone: (626) 299-7000 Fax: (626) 299-7010 | 3 |
South Pasadena Unified School District 1020 El Centro St. South Pasadena, CA 91030 Phone: (626) 441-5810 Fax: (626) 441-5815 | 3 |
Temple City Unified School District 9700 Las Tunas Drive Temple City, CA 91780 Phone: (626) 548-5000 | 3 |
Valle Lindo School District 1431 N. Central Ave. South El Monte, CA 91733 Phone: (626) 580-0610 Fax: (626) 575-1534 | 3 |
Walnut Valley Unified School District 880 S. Lemon Ave. Walnut, CA 91789 Phone: (909) 595-1261 Fax: (909) 444-3435 | 3 |
West Covina Unified School District 1717 West Merced Ave. West Covina, CA 91790 Phone: (626) 939-4600 | 3 |
Los Angeles Unified School District 333 S. Beaudry Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90017 Phone: (213) 241-1000 | 4 |
Beverly Hills Unified School District 255 South Lasky Drive Beverly Hills, CA 90212 Phone: (310) 551-5100 Fax: (310) 286-2138 | 5 |
Culver City Unified School District 4034 Irving Place Culver City, CA 90232 Phone: (310) 842-4220 | 5 |
Santa Monica Malibu Unified School District 1651 16th Street Santa Monica, CA 90404 Phone: (310) 450-8338 | 5 |
Compton Unified School District 501 S. Santa Fe Avenue Compton, CA 90221 Phone: (310) 639-4321 Fax: (310) 632-3014 | 6 |
Lynwood Unified School District 11321 Bullis Road Lynwood, CA 90262 Phone: (310) 886-1600 Fax: (310) 604-3092 | 6 |
Paramount Unifed School District 15110 California Ave. Paramount, CA 90723-4378 Phone: (562) 602-6000 Fax: (562) 602-8111 | 6 |
ABC Unified School District 16700 Norwalk Blvd. Cerritos, CA 90703 Phone: (562) 926-5566 Ext. 21162 Fax: (562) 404-1092 | 7 |
Bellflower Unified School District 16703 S. Clark Ave. Bellflower, CA 90706 Phone: (562) 866-9011 Ext. 2103 Fax: (562) 866-7713 | 7 |
Downey Unified School District 11627 Brookshire Ave. Downey, CA 90241 Phone: (562) 469-6500 Fax: (562) 469-6515 | 7 |
East Whittier City School District 14535 E. Whittier Blvd. Whittier, CA 90605 Phone: (562) 907-5900 Fax: (562) 945-6062 | 7 |
El Rancho Unified School District 9333 Loch Lomond Dr. Pico Rivera, CA 90660 Phone: (562) 801-7300 Fax: (562) 949-2821 | 7 |
Little Lake City School District 10515 S. Pioneer Blvd. Santa Fe Springs, CA 90670 Phone: (562) 868-8241 Fax: (562) 868-1192 | 7 |
Los Nietos School District 8324 S. Westman Ave. Whittier, CA 90606-3398 Phone: (562) 692-0271 Fax: (562) 699-3395 | 7 |
Lowell Joint School District 11019 Valley Home Ave. Whittier, CA 90603-3098 Phone: (562) 943-0211 | 7 |
Montebello Unified School District 123 S. Montebello Blvd. Montebello, CA 90640-4729 Phone: (323) 887-7900 | 7 |
Norwalk La Mirada Unified School District 12820 Pioneer Blvd. Norwalk, CA 90650 Phone: (562) 210-2000 | 7 |
South Whittier School District 11200 Telechron Ave. Whittier, CA 90605 Phone: (562) 944-6231 Fax: (562) 944-9659 | 7 |
Whittier City School District 7211 S. Whittier Ave. Whittier, CA 90602 Phone: (562) 789-3000 | 7 |
Whittier Union High School District 9401 S. Painter Avenue Whittier, CA 90605 Phone: (562) 698-8121 | 7 |
Centinela Valley Union High School District 14901 South Inglewood Ave. Lawndale, CA 90260 Phone: (310) 263-3200 Fax: (310) 675-8286 | 8 |
El Segundo Unified School District 641 Sheldon St. El Segundo, CA 90245 Phone: (310) 615-2650 | 8 |
Hawthorne School District 14120 Hawthorne Blvd. Hawthrone, CA 90250 Phone: (310) 676-2276 Fax: (310) 644-9216 | 8 |
Hermosa Beach City School District 425 Valley Dr. Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 (appointment required); Mailing address: 1645 Valley Drive, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 Phone: (310) 937-5877 Fax: (310) 376-4974 | 8 |
Inglewood Unified School District 401 South Inglewood Ave. Inglewood, CA 90301 Phone: (310) 419-2700 Fax: (310) 680- 5144 | 8 |
Lawndale Elementary School District 4161 W. 147th St. Lawndale, CA 90260 Phone: (310) 973-1300 Fax: (310) 263-6498 | 8 |
Lennox School District 10319 Firmona Ave. Lennox, CA 90304 Phone: (310) 695-4000 Fax: (310) 677-3817 | 8 |
Long Beach Unified School District 1515 Hughes Way Long Beach, CA 90810 Phone: (562) 997-8000 | 8 |
Manhattan Beach Unified School District 325 S. Peck Ave. Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 Phone: (310) 318-7345 Fax: (310) 303-3822 | 8 |
Palos Verdes Peninsula School District 375 Via Almar Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 Phone: (310) 378-9966 | 8 |
Redondo Beach Unified School District 1401 Inglewood Ave. Redondo Beach, CA 90278-3999 Phone: (310) 379-5449 Fax: (310) 798-8610 | 8 |
Torrance Unified School District 2335 Plaza Del Amo Torrance, CA 90501 Phone: (310) 972-6500 | 8 |
Wiseburn Unified School District 201 North Douglas El Segundo, CA 90245 Phone: (310) 725-2101 | 8 |
Residents and nonresidents can attend California Community Colleges. California residents or nonresidents must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. Additionally, anyone (resident or nonresident) over the age of 18 without a high school diploma or equivalent may apply for admission. For those younger than 18 who do not hold high school diplomas, or its equivalent, can apply for admission as special part-time or special full-time students. Students attending most K-12 school districts may apply for concurrent enrollment to take classes in their home school district and community college.
Most community colleges will ask interested students to complete the following steps for admission:
- Submit an online application8
- Participate in orientation
- Complete the assessment process to ensure proper placement in math and English courses
- Develop an Education Plan with a counselor or advisor
Assistance with this process is available on community colleges campus in the Department of Admissions and Records.9 Counselors can help students throughout the admissions process.
Depending on the legal status of a student, there are various options to receive aid to attend college in California.
Cal Grants are available for students who are
- a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen or meet AB540 eligibility criteria or
- a California resident for 1 year
There are a variety of Cal Grants available depending on the type of degree or vocational or career training the student is pursuing.
If the student is a U.S. citizen or a legal resident, they will have to submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).10
If the student is a nonresident but attended a California high school for at least three years, they can submit the AB 540 affidavit to apply for the California Dream Act.11
For more information, please visit the California Student Aid Commission.12
The application to submit the Cal Grant opens each year on October 1st, and must be submitted by March 2nd.
Resource | SPA |
---|---|
Antelope Valley Community College District 3041 W. Avenue K Lancaster, CA 93536 Phone: (661) 722-6300 | 1 |
Glendale Community College District 1500 North Verdugo Rd. Glendale, CA 91208 Phone: (818) 240-1000 | 2 |
Santa Clarita Community College District 26455 Rockwell Canyon Rd. Santa Clarita, CA 91355 Phone: (661) 259-7800 | 2 |
Citrus Community College District 1000 W. Foothill Blvd. Glendora, CA 91741 Phone: (626) 963-0323 | 3 |
Mt. San Antonio Community College District 1100 N. Grand Ave. Walnut, CA 91789 Phone: (909) 274-7500 | 3 |
Pasadena Area Community College District 1570 E. Colorado Blvd. Pasadena, CA 91106 Phone: (626) 585-7123 | 3 |
Los Angeles Community College District 770 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90017 Phone: (213) 891-2000 | 4 |
Santa Monica Community College District 1900 Pico Blvd. Santa Monica, CA 90405 Phone: (310) 434-4000 | 5 |
Compton College 1111. E. Artesia Blvd. Compton, CA 90221 Phone: (310) 900-1600 | 6 |
Cerritos Community College District 11110 Alondra Blvd. Norwalk, CA 90650 Phone: (562) 860-2451 | 7 |
Rio Hondo Community College District 3600 Workman Mill Rd. Whittier, CA 90601 Phone: (562) 692-0921 | 7 |
El Camino Community College District 16007 Crenshaw Blvd Torrance, CA 90506 Phone: (866) 352-2646 | 8 |
Long Beach Community College District 1305 E. Pacific Coast Highway Long Beach, CA 90806 Phone: (562) 938-4111 | 8 |
Resource | Languages | Summary | Eligibility | SPA |
---|---|---|---|---|
LA County Library Multiple locations throughout LA County Everyday: 1:00pm-10:00pm | English, Spanish | Free homework help online from your computer in a variety of subjects. | Free; need a library card; K-12, College, and adult learners | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 |
Antelope Valley College Tutoring Center 3041 West Ave K Lancaster, CA 93536 (661) 722-6300 | Multiple; English, Spanish | Tutoring by appointment in selected computer, business, foreign language, science, social science, music, and vocational classes. | Free; for enrolled students | 1 |
Assurance Learning Academy 43145 Business Center Pkwy, Suite 102-103 Lancaster, CA 93535 (877) 360-5327 Mon: 8:00AM–12:00PM & 2:00PM–6:00PM Tue-Fri: 8:00AM–6:00PM | English, Spanish | High school diploma program designed to help fit around your schedule. One-on-one teacher mentoring; personalized and flexible learning plans to fit each students’ individual needs. Access to technology labs—computers, printers, scanners and more. | Free; K-12 | 1 |
New Directions for Youth 7315 North Lankershim Blvd. North Hollywood, CA 91605 (818) 503-6330 Mon-Thur: 8:00AM–8:00PM Fri: 8:00AM-5:30PM Sat: 11:00AM-2:00PM | English, Spanish | Individual, group and family counseling, job skills training, after-school activities, tutoring and literacy programs, anti-graffiti and environmental programs, health referrals, programmatic alternatives to gang involvement, recreational programs, parenting classes, and computer courses. Free 10-week Summer Day Camp program. | Free; youth up to the age of 22 | 2 |
Boys and Girls Club of West San Gabriel Valley 328 South Ramona Ave. Monterey Park, CA 91754 (626) 573-2831 Early Learning Center Program: Mon-Fri: 6:00AM-6:00PM School Age Program: Mon-Fri: 6:00AM-8:00AM | English, Spanish | Early Learning Center offers play-based and academic instruction for youngest members so they are kindergarten ready. Also provide children with opportunities for social interaction to develop their social and emotional wellness, and Boys & Girls Club programming for youth ages 6-12. Morning transportation to school. | Free; ages 2-12 | 3 |
The Youth and Family Club of Pomona Valley 1420 South Garey Avenue, Pomona, CA 91766 (909) 242-1110 Mon, Tue, Thur, Fri: 2:30PM-6:30PM Wed: 1:30PM-6:30PM; Teen Center: Mon-Fri 3:00PM-7:00PM | English, Spanish | A comprehensive homework help and tutoring program, POWER HOUR is designed to raise the academic proficiencies of Club members ages 6 to 17. This program utilizes volunteers from Cal Poly Pomona, University of La Verne, Cal State Fullerton, and other local universities to provide homework help and tutoring to Club members. | Free; K-12 | 3 |
All Peoples Community Center 822 East 20th Street Los Angeles, CA 90011 (213) 747- 6357 Mon-Fri: 6:30AM-8:30PM Sat: 9:00AM-2:00PM | English, Spanish | Extended Day Child Care, After-School Programs, Summer Camp, Collaboration with USC, CSULA, CSUDH, CSUN for family wellness, Worksource Centers | Free. Daycare for 2-5 year olds; after-school programs for grades 1-12; Summer Camp for grades 8-12; WorkSource Center for 18 years and older | 4 |
Amanecer 1200 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 400 Los Angeles, CA 90017 (213) 481-7464 Mon-Fri: 8:30AM-5:30PM | English, Spanish | Mental Health Services, 24 hour crisis intervention, school based programs, support "birth to five," helps unaccompanied minors, trauma-informed care, PTSD. | For ages 0-26; free | 4 |
Carecen 2845 W. 7th St. Los Angeles, CA 90005 (213) 385-7800 Mon-Sat: 9:00AM-5:00PM | English, Spanish | Various calsses for language services, citizenship tests, college prep, and standard educational programs. | Teens and adults; free | 4 |
Central City Neighborhood Partners 501 S. Bixel Street Los Angeles, CA 90017 (213) 482- 8616 Mon-Fri: 8:30AM-8:00PM | English, Spanish | Various youth services for college prep, leadership development, recreational and cultural activities, information on LA Department of Public Social Services Toy Loan Program, and youth worksource. | Free; for youths K-12 | 4 |
Echo Park 826 LA 1714 West Sunset Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90026 (213) 413-3388 Hours vary based on program | 826LA provides resources for students including tutoring and engaging field trips. Teachers in under-resourced public schools can also request 826LA volunteers to support classrooms and aid in educating students. | Free; geared towards low-income individuals | 4 | |
LA Opportunity Youth Collaborative 333 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 550 Los Angeles, CA 90010 (213) 368-6010 Mon-Fri: 9:00AM-5:00PM | English, Spanish | List for tutoring and test preparation; TAY educational rights; alternative high school completion; ILP support for college prep, senior expenses; advocacy for special education and disciplinary actions. | Children and teens | 4 |
826 LA 12515 Venice Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90066 (310) 915-0200 | English, Spanish | Supporting students ages 6 to 18 with their creative and expository writing skills, and to helping teachers inspire their students to write. During the school year they offer tutoring Monday through Thursday, for students ages 6–11; and in the evening, Tuesday and Thursday, for students ages 11–18. | Free; ages 6-18 | 5 |
Star Education 10101 Jefferson Blvd. Culver City, CA 90232 (310) 842-8040 | This resource offers after-school academic support, group tutoring, and summer camp. | Contact for cost information | 5 | |
AltaMed foundation 2040 Camfield Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90040 (323) 720-5643 | English Spanish | For high school students: Escalera case management program, mentoring, case management, tutoring | Free; must be high school student | 7 |
City of Commerce Public Library 2269 S. Atlantic Blvd. Commerce, CA 90040 (323) 887-4494 Mon-Thurs: 3:00PM-7:00PM Sat: 11:00AM-2:00PM | English, Spanish | Homework helpers are available during the school year to help children with their homework. Live tutoring website with library card. For kids, teens, college students, and adults. Adults can get help with writing resumes and cover letters as well. | Free; kids, teens, college students, adults | 7 |
Mexican American Opportunity Foundation 5657 E. Washington Blvd. Commerce, CA 90040 (323) 890-1555 Mon-Fri: 8:00AM-5:00PM | English, Spanish | Escalera Youth Program for high school juniors to help them graduate, prepare for college, and explore career options. Students are motivated to participate in civic engagement and are provided work experience through volunteer/internship opportunities. Afterschool meetings, college fieldtrips, professional career presentations, mock interviews, and chance to attended conferences provided for students. | Free; high school juniors | 7 |
California children are strongly encouraged to thrive in a supporting and nourishing education environment, which is why a number of resources exist to ensure that children fairly and freely receive a formal education. California provides specially designed instruction, at no cost to the parent, to meet the unique needs of children with disabilities.13
If you believe your child may have a learning disability, you can request assessments and evaluations, as your right as a parent. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) ensures that all children with disabilities are entitled to a free appropriate public education to meet their unique needs and prepare them for further education, employment and independent living. In California, individuals (newborn through 22 years of age) received special education services for the following disabilities:14
- Autism
- Deaf-blindness
- Deafness
- Emotional disturbance
- Hard of hearing
- Intellectual disabilities
- Multiple disabilities
- Orthopedic impairment
- Other health impairment
- Specific learning disability
- Speech or language impairment
- Traumatic brain injury
- Visual impairment
Medicaid can be used since 1988 as payment to schools for certain medically necessary services provided to children under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) through an individualized education plan (IEP) or individualized family service plan (IFSP).15
Moreover, students with disabilities may qualify for services under Section 504 of the Federal Vocational and Rehabilitation Act of 1973.16 This law protects the rights of individuals with disabilities in programs and activities that receive federal funding. Students may qualify for services under Section 504 but not necessarily under IDEA. Section 504 is a civil rights law that protects the rights of individuals with disabilities.
Regarding special education services, parents and students over age eighteen have the right17
- To Participate
- To Receive Prior Written Notice
- To Consent
- To Refuse to Consent
- To Be Given a Nondiscriminatory Assessment
- To Receive Independent Educational Assessments
- To Access Educational Records
- To Stay in the Current Program If There is a Disagreement About Placement
- To Be Given a Hearing Regarding Disagreements About an IEP
- To Receive Mediation
- To File a Complaint Against Your School District
- To Be Informed of School Discipline and Alternative Placement
- To Be Informed of Policies Regarding Children Who Attend Private Schools
Resource | Languages | Summary | Eligibility | SPA |
---|---|---|---|---|
California Department of Education 916-319-0800 | Multiple; English, Spanish | IDEA and Parent's Rights | N/A | |
Los Angeles Unified School District 333 South Beaudry Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90017 Mon-Fri: 7:30AM-4:40PM (213) 241-1000 | Multiple; English, Spanish | Complete parent's guide to special education services for children. | For students K-12; free | 4 |
Los Angeles County Office of Education 9300 Imperial Highway Downey, CA 90242 Mon-Fri: 8:00AM-5:00PM (562) 922-6111 | Multiple; English, Spanish | List of SELPA (special education local plan areas) in LA County to describe special education service needs within each region. | For students K-12; free | 7 |
California Department of Education; LA County Special Education 9300 Imperial Highway Downey, CA 90242 Mon-Fri: 8:00AM-5:00PM (562) 803-8306 | Multiple; English, Spanish | Direct information about the special needs contact for LA County Education. | For students K-12; free | 7 |
Palmdale School District 39139 North 10th St. East Palmdale, CA 93550 (661) 947-7191 | The Special Education department is committed to providing a free, appropriate public education for all students in the least restrictive environment. Placement and services for students with disabilities are assigned in accordance with a student’s unique needs. | For students K-12; free | 1 | |
The Help Group
13130 Burbank Blvd. Sherman Oaks, CA 91401 Mon-Fri: 8:00AM-6:00PM (818) 781-0360 | English, Spanish | Three learning disability schools for students with learning disabilities or mild emotional issues, ADHD and learning differences. Kids Like Me Program conducts four unique camps, each one designed to address varying ages, abilities and needs of children with autism spectrum disorder and other developmental challenges. | Accents Medical; children and teens | 2 |
Five Acres 760 Mountain View Street Altadena, CA 91001 Mon-Fri: 8:00AM-8:00PM Weekends scheduled individually (626) 798-6793 | English, Spanish | Community Based Specialty (CBS) Division offers several specialty programs including Deaf Services, PCIT (Parent Child Interaction Therapy), Wraparound, Foster Family Program and services at Pasadena Mental Health Center. Mental Health Services, foster care program and adoption support, aftercare for children leaving program, evaluation and support for clients. | Medical; free services for eligible families, potential funding for those who need it. For Children with emotional disturbances, learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, ADHD, and high functioning autism. | 3 |
SEEK Education 9060 Huntington Drive San Gabriel, CA 91775 Mon-Fri: 9:00AM-5:00PM (626) 943-7772 Ext. 110 | Multiple; English, Spanish | For individuals with autism. Early Acceleration Program is for children ages 0 to 36 months who are either diagnosed with, or have an established risk of developmental delay. | Accepts most insurances, including Anthem Blue Cross, Kaiser, and Medi-Cal; Specifically for toddlers, but ranges to adults | 3 |
Exceptional Children's Foundation (ECF) - Developmental Activity Center 1430 Venice Boulevard Los Angeles, CA 90006 Mon-Fri 7:30AM-3:30PM (213) 748-3556 | English, Spanish | Program provides training in self-help, vocational, recreational, and social skills, all with respect for each individual’s ability level. | Pay through medical insurance | 4 |
Fiesta Educative 2310 Pasadena Ave., Suite #206 Los Angeles, CA 90031 Mon-Fri: 9:00AM-5:00PM (323) 221-6696 | English, Spanish | This service provides information and training to Latino families on how to obtain services for all persons with disabilities. | Most services are free; others depend on services. Vendored with the regional center. No documentation regarding citizenship required. | 4 |
Frank D. Lanterman Regional Center 3303 Wilshire Boulevard, Suite 700 Los Angeles, CA 90010 Mon-Fri: 9:00AM-5:00PM (213) 383-1300 | English, Spanish, Korean, Armenian | Offers both administrative and clinical services. The center serves over 9,000 children and adults with developmental disabilities, who have or are at risk for a developmental delay or disability, and who are at high-risk of parenting an infant with a disability. | Free | 4 |
KASEC - LA Center 680 Wilshire Pl. #419 Los Angeles, CA 90005 Mon-Fri 9:00AM-6:00PM (562) 926-2040 | English, Korean | This service provides developmental screening, developmental disorder evaluation, a diagnosis parenting seminar, and mental health workshop. | Depends on program | 4, 7 |
Empower Tech 9100 S. Sepulveda Suite 204 Los Angeles, CA 90045 Mon- Fri 8:00AM-5:00PM (310) 338-1597 | English | Works to help people with educational and developmental disabilities learn how to use technology and software. They hold labs in which learners learn how to use the internet, play games, and try on different assistive technology products. Offer a session with an Assistive Technology Specialist to identify technology that may help individuals become more independent at home, school or work. Specific details can be found on their website. | Free of charge to individuals with disabilities for the exception of the T.R.A.D.E. School. Tuition is $900.00 per 4 week session, complete program is $4,500.00, and a $100.00 non-refundable registration fee. | 5 |
Exceptional Children's Foundation 5350 Machado Road Culver City, CA 90230 Mon-Fri: 8:00AM-4:30PM (310) 204-3300 | English, Spanish | This service provides speech and language therapy, and mental health services. | Services are provided through Regional Center referrals; ages 5-12 | 5 |
LA Speech and Language Therapy Center 5761 Buckingham Parkway Culver City, CA 90230 Mon-Fri: 8:30AM-5:30PM (310) 649-6199 | Multiple; English, Spanish | Speech-Language assessments and therapy for all ages, starting with children as young as 18 months and going through adulthood They also provide a summer drama program. Services are provided for autism spectrum disorders, delayed speech and language dysfluency, tongue thrust, voice disorders, hearing impairment and adult services. | Prices vary; accept Kaiser Permanente, Community Family Care, Physicians Choice. Work with regional centers and school districts; children 5-11. | 5 |
Drew Child Development Corporation
1770 East 118th Street Los Angeles, CA 90059 Mon-Fri: 9:00AM-5:00PM 1(800) 504-739 | English, Spanish | Drew Child Development Corporation offers an inclusive E. I. program to meet the developmental requirements of children ages 18 months – 3 years with special needs and their families. Mental health services and child abuse treatment program. Family therapy in the area of adolescent pregnancy, HIV education, and substance abuse. | Free or sliding scale | 6 |
Giant Steps 2228 Crenshaw Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90016 Mon-Fri 8AM-4:00PM (323) 733-6401 | English, Spanish | Services include: day program, individual living skills program, vocational triaining, residential facilities | Free | 6 |
Wayfinder Family Services 5300 Angeles Vista Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90043 Mon-Fri: 8:00-4:30PM School Hours: 8:30AM-2:30PM Nancy Berger- Principal of Special Education School: (323) 295-4555 Ext. 299 General Phone Number: (323) 295-4555 Toll Free: (800) 352-2290 | English, Spanish | State-certified non-public school for children with profound special needs. In a safe, positive learning environment, students maximize their levels of independence. Wayfinder provides the least restrictive environment for their students. | Nonpublic school- school districts may pay for attendance; children and youth, ages 5 to 22, with moderate-to-severe disabilities, and varying levels of medical, physical and behavioral challenges, price varies. For immigrants, latino children | 6 |
KASEC - OC Center 1661 N. Raymond Ave. Suite 109 Anaheim, CA 92801 Mon-Fri 9:00AM-6:00PM (562) 926-2040 | English, Korean | This service provides developmental screening, developmental disorder evaluation, a diagnosis parenting seminar, and mental health workshop. | Sliding scale, half of services free | 7 |
Perez Career and Transition Center - Los Angeles Unified School Distrcit 4540 Michigan Ave Los Angeles, CA 90022 Mon-Fri: 7:30AM-4:30PM Office hours: 7:30AM-4:30PM (323) 269-0681 | English, Spanish | Services include: medical supervision, financial screening, social work services, durable medial equipment, inter-agency consultaiton. | Sliding scale | 7 |
Resource | Languages | Summary | Eligibility | SPA |
---|---|---|---|---|
California Department of Education (916) 319-0800 | Multiple; English, Spanish | Websites and resources about bullying, preventing bullying, and other publications. | N/A | |
Los Angeles Unified School District 333 South Beaudry Avenue Los Angeles, CA 90017 Mon-Fri: 7:30AM-4:40PM (213) 241-1000 | Multiple; English, Spanish | LAUSD bullying policy | 2 | |
Stomp Out Bullying | Resources for victims of bullying, including an online chat. | N/A | ||
Stop Bullying | English, Spanish | Instructions on what to do if a child is being bullied at school. | N/A | |
Teaching Tolerance | Information/Definition of different types of bullying. | N/A | ||
Teen Health and Wellness | Extensive list of hotlines ranging from alcohol and drugs, grief and loss, bullying, stress, suicide, teen pregnancy, and more. | N/A | ||
The Cybersmile Foundation | List of hotlines regarding individual situations involving bullying. | N/A | ||
Boys and Girls Club of San Fernando Valley 11251 Glenoaks Boulevard Pacoima, CA 91331 Mon: 3:00PM-7:45PM Tues: 2:00PM-6:45PM Wed-Fri: 3:00PM-7:45PM (818) 896-5261 | English, Spanish | Various Programs designed to develop young people’s capacity to engage in positive behaviors to nurture their well-being, set personal goals, and grow into self-sufficient adults. Programs include: Cyber Safety, SMART girls, and Passport to Manhood. | Free; part of annual membership | 2 |
San Fernando Valley Community Mental Health Center INC
14535 Sherman Circle Van Nuys, California 91405 Mon-Thur: 8:00AM-7:00PM Friday: 8:00AM-5:00PM (818) 901-4930 | Multiple; English, Spanish | Multitude of programs for children, teens, and adults ranging from domestic violence and bullying counseling to 24 hour hotlines. Therapy and counseling for adults and some youths ages 12-30. | Free; no citizenship documents required | 2 |
Project Sister Family Services 363 S. Park Ave. Suite 303 Pomona, CA 91766 Mon-Fri: 8:00AM-5:00PM (909) 623-1619 | English, Spanish | Walk in counseling for victims of child abuse and sexual asault. Bullying workshop that defines bullying and the different forms. Discusses effects of bullying and how to protect against and stop bullying by reporting to an adult. Help with U visa for parents to stay in the country. | Free; no citizenship documents required. Victims of all ages | 3 |
Student Rights
As a result of the Williams v. California case filed in 2000, the governor of California signed into law that students had the following rights:18
- the right to a clean and safe school
- the right to have a book to use in class and at home
- the right to a qualified teacher.
Parents’ and Legal Guardian’s Rights
The California State Parent Teacher Association, based on laws and policies approved by the California Department of Education, have listed the following as legal, guaranteed rights that families have regarding school and student involvement.20
- Visiting a school for classroom observation
- Participating in parent-teacher conferences
- Volunteering
- Monitoring student attendance
- Receiving student testing results
- Determining school selection
- Ensuring safe school environments
- Reviewing curriculum
- Monitoring their student’s academic progress
- Having access to their students’ records
- Helping to establish and review standards
- Participating in the development of school rules
- Being informed about psychological testing
- Participating in councils and committees
- Contributing to policy development.
The California Department of Education (CDE) is responsible for ensuring that all persons are provided equal access to its available services and information. The CDE is required to provide resources, which include interpreters and translated materials of information and services in the language readily understood by an individual seeking guidance or assistance.21 A person has the right to interact with the CDE in a language that best ensures meaningful access to programs and services at no cost to them.
Schools must provide a program for English learners to overcome language barriers and provide access to the core curriculum. This was determined by the 1974 Lau v. Nichols and 1981 Castañeda v. Pickard cases.22 As such, English learners have the right to participate meaningfully and equally in all educational programs and services. For more information, please visit the Dear Colleague Letter regarding English Learners.23
The following educational programs are ones that might be available to English learners in their school district:24
- Dual-Language Immersion Program: A classroom setting that provides language learning and academic instruction for native speakers of English and native speakers of another language, with the goals of high academic achievement, first and second language proficiency, and cross-cultural understanding
- Transitional or Developmental Program: A classroom setting for English learners that provides instruction to pupils that utilizes a pupil’s native language for literacy and academic instruction and enables an English learner to achieve English proficiency and academic mastery of subject matter content and higher order skills, including critical thinking, in order to meet the state-adopted academic content standards
- Structured English Immersion: A classroom setting for English learners in which nearly all classroom instruction is provided in English but with a curriculum and presentation designed for pupils who are learning English. At minimum, English learners will be provided a program of Structured English Immersion.
Families should also be informed that a California public school district with 51 or more English learners must form a District English Learner Advisory Committee (DELAC) unless the district designates for this purpose a sub-committee of an existing district wide advisory committee.25 At the school level, each California public school with 21 or more English learners must form an English Learner Advisory Committee (ELAC).26
These committees allow parents and guardians to:
At the school level
- Advise the principal and staff in the development of a site plan for English learners and submitting the plan to the School Site Council for consideration of inclusion in the School Plan for Student Achievement.
- Assist in the development of the school wide needs assessment.
At the district level
- Assist with the development of a district master plan for education programs and services for English learners.
- Conduct a district wide needs assessment on a school-by-school basis.
- Establishment of district programs, goals, and objectives for programs and services for English learners.
- Development of a plan to ensure compliance with any applicable teacher and/or teacher aide requirements.
- Review and comment on the school district reclassification procedures.
- Review and comment on the written notifications required to be sent to parents and guardians.
- Review and comment on the development or annual update of the Local Control and Accountability Plan (LCAP).*
For more detailed information, we have a list of English as Second Language resources for students and families under the “Language Services” section of our toolkit.
The National Association for the Education of Homeless Children and Youth is a national membership association dedicated to educational excellence of children and youth experiencing homelessness. The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act is a primary piece of federal legislation related to the education of children and youth experiencing homelessness.27 Eligible children and youth have the right to immediate school enrollment even when records are not present, right to remain in the school or origin if it’s in the student’s best interest, right to receive transportation to and from the school of origin, and the right to receive support for academic success.
Further information for Los Angeles Unified School District Homeless Education Program can be found at here.
Additional Info:
Department of Public School Services 28
Address: 1819 Charlie Sifford Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90047
Phone: (323) 420-2918
Languages: Multiple
Hours: Mon-Fri: 8:00AM-5:00PM
Eligibility: For LA County Immigrants
- List of immigrant rights and services provided by LA County School District
- U.S. Department of Education. (2014). Dear colleague letter on the rights of all children to enroll in public schools. Retrieved from https://www.justice.gov/sites/default/files/crt/legacy/2014/05/08/plylerletter.pdf
- U.S. Department of Education. (2018). Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Retrieved from https://www2.ed.gov/policy/gen/guid/fpco/ferpa/index.html
- American Civil Liberties Union. (2020). FAQ for educators on immigrant students in public schools. Retrieved from https://www.aclu.org/other/faq-educators-immigrant-students-public-schools
- U.S. Department of Education. (2015). Information for Limited English Proficient (LEP) parents and guardians and for schools and school districts that communicate with them. Retrieved from https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/dcl-factsheet-lep-parents-201501.pdf
- U.S. Department of Education. (2011). Questions and answers for school districts and parents regarding documentation. Retrieved from https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/docs/qa-201101.pdf
- Los Angeles Unified School District. (2018). We are one L.A. Unified: Standing with immigrant families. Los Angeles, CA: Author. Retrieved from https://achieve.lausd.net/cms/lib/CA01000043/Centricity/domain/818/pdfs/We%20Are%20One_Booklet_Family.pdf
- California Department of Education. (n.d.). Truancy. Retrieved from https://www.cde.ca.gov/ls/ai/tr/
- California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office. (2020). Admission requirements. Retrieved from https://www.cccapply.org/colleges/requirements
- California Community Colleges Chancellor’s Office. (2020). Admissions and records. Retrieved from https://www.cccco.edu/About-Us/Chancellors-Office/Divisions/Educational-Services-and-Support/Special-Populations/Admissions-and-Records
- U.S. Department of Education. (2020). Federal student aid. Retrieved from https://studentaid.gov/h/apply-for-aid/fafsa
- California Student Aid Commission. (2020. California Dream Act application. Retrieved from https://www.csac.ca.gov/california-dream-act
- California Student Aid Commission. (2020). California student aid commission. Retrieved from https://www.csac.ca.gov/
- The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). (2015). Retrieved from https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/136/6/e1650
- California Department of Education. (2020). Retrieved from https://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/se/sr/cefspeced.asp
- American Psychological Association. (2020). The Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) for children with special educational needs. Retrieved from https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/136/6/e1650
- Los Angeles County Office of Education. (2015). Section 504: Supporting students with disabilities. Retrieved from https://www.lacoe.edu/Student-Services/Supporting-Students-w-Disabilities-Section-504
- California Department of Education. (2019). Parents’ rights. Retrieved from https://www.cde.ca.gov/sp/se/qa/pssummary.asp
- American Civil Liberties Union. (2020). Williams v. California. Retrieved from https://www.aclusocal.org/en/cases/williams-v-state-California
- American Civil Liberties Union. (2020). Williams complaint process. Retrieved from https://www.aclusocal.org/en/williams-complaint-process
- California State PTA. (2016). Parents: Know your rights. Retrieved from https://capta.org/focus-areas/family-engagement/parents-rights/
- California Department of Education. (2020). Language services policy and process. Retrieved from https://www.cde.ca.gov/re/di/eo/languageservices.asp
- Colorín Colorado. (2010). Landmark court rulings regarding English language learners. Retrieved from https://www.colorincolorado.org/article/landmark-court-rulings-regarding-english-language-learners
- U.S. Department of Education. (2015). Dear colleague letter: English learners. Retrieved from https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/letters/colleague-el-201501.pdf
- California Department of Education. (2019). Facts about English Learners in California - CalEdFacts. Retrieved from https://www.cde.ca.gov/ds/sd/cb/cefelfacts.asp
- California Department of Education. (2019). District English Learner advisory committee. Retrieved from https://www.cde.ca.gov/ta/cr/delac.asp
- California Department of Education. (2019). English Learner Advisory committee. Retrieved from https://www.cde.ca.gov/ta/cr/elac.asp
- National Center for Homeless Education. (n.d.). The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act. Retrieved from https://nche.ed.gov/mckinney-vento/
- Department of Public Social Services. (n.d.). Department of public social services. Retrieved from http://dpss.lacounty.gov