What is a SELPA?

SELPA Logo Blue GoldSELPA is the acronym for Special Education Local Plan Area.

A special education program needs a minimum size and scope. Because many LEAs in California are under this minimum, SELPAs were created. 

A SELPA is a membership of LEAs that form this minimum size to provide special education and related services to students with disabilities. Currently, there are just under 140 SELPAs in California.

A SELPA provides local control and accountability in accordance with assurances set forth in federal law. Each SELPA is required to develop and update a Local Plan which includes an annual budget and services plan. 

Additional Information

Both the California Department of Education (CDE) and the California Legislative Analyst's Office (LAO) have webpages and videos that help describe and explain SELPAs:

Did you know...

The Fresno County SELPA, in particular, provides the following: 

  • Compliance and Monitoring
  • Professional Development 
  • Allocation of Special Education Funds
  • Program and Fiscal Reporting
  • Data Collection 
  • Ongoing Review of Programs 

See our full list of SELPA programs and services here.