Have you ever wondered who ensures that special education programs in California meet the needs of students with disabilities? Meet the Advisory Commission on Special Education (ACSE), an essential advisory body authorized by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the California Education Code.
What is the ACSE?
The ACSE is tasked with providing recommendations and advice to various state education bodies, including the State Board of Education, the State Superintendent of Public Instruction, the Legislature, and the Governor. Their work focuses on research, program development, and evaluation in special education across California.
When Does the ACSE Meet?
The Commission holds a minimum of five meetings each year. Additional subcommittee or task force meetings may also be scheduled, depending on the budget. These meetings are open to the public, and agendas are posted at least 10 days prior. You can even watch a live video stream of the meetings on the scheduled dates.
Who Serves on the Commission?
The ACSE consists of appointed members from the Speaker of the Assembly, Senate Committee on Rules, Governor, and the State Board of Education. The membership includes:
- Parents
- Persons with disabilities
- Individuals knowledgeable about the administration of special education
- Teachers
- Legislative representatives from the Assembly and Senate
Term Lengths
Legislative members serve at the pleasure of the appointing body, while public members serve four-year terms, with a maximum of two terms. Terms expire on December 31 in odd-numbered years.
How to Become a Commissioner
If you're interested in becoming a Commissioner, you should review the Member Directory to find out whose terms are expiring. Contact the appointing body for more information on their application process:
- Governor's Office: 916-445-2841
- Senate Committee on Rules: 916-651-4151
- Speaker of the Assembly: 916-319-2029
- State Board of Education: 916-319-0827
Reporting
The ACSE reports at least annually to the following entities:
- California State Board of Education
- California State Superintendent of Public Instruction
- Governor of the State of California
- California State Assembly
- California State Senate
Issues Addressed
The ACSE addresses a wide range of issues, including:
- Student Outcomes
- Incarcerated Youth
- Positive Behavioral Interventions
- Interagency Agreements
- Teacher Credentialing
- Parity for Parents/Families
- Integrated Services
- Annual Reports
- Legislative Bill Review
- State Plan Input
- Rules and Regulations
- Position Statements on Current Issues in Special Education
- Grazer Outstanding Achievement in Learning (GOAL) Award
Public Involvement
The ACSE welcomes public involvement. Opportunities for public comment are provided at each meeting. You can also access webcasts of past meetings and agendas for upcoming meetings online. Additionally, public hearings are periodically conducted on special education or related issues.
For more information, please follow this link.
