CA AB2785

State Department of Education must develop and post a manual by July 1, 2018 providing guidance to local educational agencies on identifying, assessing, supporting, and reclassifying English learners who may qualify for special education and pupils with disabilities who may be classified as English learners.

Manual must include evidence-based practices covering 14 specific topics including identification guidance, second language acquisition, assessment procedures, individualized education program development, bilingual program placement, and family engagement strategies.

Department must review existing resources from local agencies, other states, and the federal government, and establish a stakeholder group of experts and practitioners in special education and English learner education to inform manual development.

Department must develop a dissemination and professional development plan to be submitted to the State Board of Education, Department of Finance, Legislative Analyst's Office, and relevant legislative committees by July 1, 2018, with implementation contingent on future appropriation.

Manual use is voluntary for local educational agencies, charter schools, and state special schools, with guidance designed to promote collaboration among general education teachers, special education teachers, administrators, and parents.