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Best Special Needs Schools in Tustin, California (2026)

Compare 3 special needs schools in Tustin. Explore the ranked list and find a program that feels right for your child.

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Comparing school options in Tustin

Tustin Unified operates as its own Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA), so one district handles both local special education and SELPA planning. Its special education department works from the Educational Support Center at 1151 San Juan Street and can be reached at (714) 730-7301, ext. 314. The district serves eligible residents ages three through twenty-two and also serves infants with low incidence disabilities.

For a child younger than 2 years 10 months, Tustin Unified sends families to the Regional Center of Orange County for an intake interview. Older children start with their teacher, their school, or the special education office. A Student Study Team review is recommended first, but the district states plainly that an SST is not required to get an assessment. Within 15 days of a request, not counting summer break, you receive either an assessment plan or a written notice declining to assess.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Special Needs Schools in Tustin

Do I need a Student Study Team meeting before Tustin Unified will assess my child?
No. Tustin Unified highly recommends that a Student Study Team review your child's progress before an assessment plan is written, and the team can suggest classroom interventions. The district also says an SST is not a requirement to obtain an assessment. You can request an assessment at any time. Our guide on how to request a special education evaluation shows how to put it in writing.
What happens after I ask Tustin Unified for an assessment?
Within 15 days of your request, not counting summer break, the district sends either an assessment plan listing the areas it will assess or a notice declining to assess, with reasons. You can appeal a refusal. No testing starts until you give written consent, even if you asked verbally. After consent, the assessment and an IEP meeting must be finished within 60 calendar days.
Who handles a referral for a Tustin toddler?
If your child is younger than 2 years 10 months, Tustin Unified directs you to the Regional Center of Orange County for an intake interview. The state lists that regional center as serving Orange County, with a main line of 714-796-5100. Tustin Unified itself also serves infants with low incidence disabilities, so ask the district about that route too. Our early intervention guide explains Early Start.
How do Tustin families learn about their right to request an assessment?
Each year the Orange County Department of Education publishes a notice telling parents they can refer a child to the local school district for a special education eligibility review. Every Tustin Unified school also includes this right in its annual notice of parent rights. If you are unsure where to start, call the special education office at (714) 730-7301, ext. 314.

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