Special Education Services
Welcome to the GICS Special Education page. Below you will find key information about Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), Section 504 Plans, assessments, and school support services.
At Goethe International Charter School (GICS), we are committed to ensuring that all students have access to the support they need to be successful in school. We work closely with families, teachers, specialists, and community partners to provide individualized services and accommodations that allow students to access and participate in our International Baccalaureate (IB) program.
For additional resources, guidance, and compliance information, families may also visit the Division of Special Education at LAUSD Division of Special Education.
Special Education
Our Service Delivery Model
Special education is not a place; it is a set of services designed to meet the unique needs of each student. GICS is committed to educating students in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE), ensuring students learn alongside their peers to the greatest extent appropriate.The IEP team—which includes parents/guardians, teachers, administrators, and specialists—determines the services and supports each student requires.Students may receive support through one or more of the following service models:General Education
Students remain in the general education classroom and receive accommodations, modifications, and supports outlined in their IEP or Section 504 Plan.Resource Specialist Program (RSP)
Students who spend the majority of their day in general education may receive additional support from a Resource Specialist Teacher. Services may be provided within the classroom or in a separate setting for short periods and focus on helping students successfully access the core curriculum.Related Services
Students may receive specialized services such as:- Speech and Language Therapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Adapted Physical Education (APE)
- Counseling Services
- Other services as determined by the IEP team
Evaluation & Assessment Requests
If you suspect your child may have a disability or requires accommodations to access their education, you have the right to request a formal evaluation.
Step 1: Submit a Written Request
Parents or guardians may submit a written request for an initial Special Education or Section 504 evaluation to a classroom teacher, school administrator, or the Special Populations Department.
Step 2: Collaborative Review
Our team will review the request, gather relevant academic and behavioral information, and communicate with you regarding the next steps in the evaluation process.
Annual Notice of Child Find Responsibilities
Pursuant to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Goethe International Charter School has an ongoing responsibility to locate, identify, and evaluate all children with known or suspected disabilities.
This Child Find obligation applies to children from birth through age 21, including students who are:
- Attending public, private, or parochial schools
- Highly mobile, including students experiencing homelessness or foster youth
- Homeschooled
- Advancing from grade to grade while demonstrating signs of a disability that may impact educational performance
All evaluations and services determined necessary through the assessment process are provided at no cost to families.
Information gathered through the evaluation process is protected under the confidentiality requirements of the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA).
If you suspect your child, or a child in your care, may have a physical, emotional, behavioral, developmental, or learning disability, please contact our Special Education Department.
Contact Name: [Insert Name]Title: [Insert Title]
Phone: [Insert Phone Number]
Email: [Insert Email Address]
Student and Family Rights
GICS is committed to maintaining a safe, inclusive, and welcoming educational environment for all students and families.Students, parents, and staff are protected from discrimination, harassment, intimidation, and bullying. Additional information regarding these protections can be found through:
Connect With Our Team
For questions regarding:
- Initial assessments
- Existing IEPs
- Section 504 Plans
- Accommodations and supports
- Special Education services
- English Learner support services
Please contact our Special Populations Administrator: [email protected]
Frequently Asked Questions
Navigating educational support systems can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to do it alone.
Below you will find answers to common questions about assessments, eligibility, IEPs, Section 504 Plans, accommodations, and the services available to support students at GICS. Our goal is to provide clear information so families can confidently partner with us in supporting their child's success.
Parent Resources & Regional Handbooks
Up-to-date Special Education booklets, compliance brochures, and translated procedural guides are available for download in multiple languages directly from the LAUSD Division of Special Education resource site.