Families raising children with disabilities deserve access to information, resources, and a strong support system. That’s why Canaan Cares is encouraged to see California taking meaningful steps to strengthen advocacy and support for students receiving special education services.
As part of the 2026-2027 state budget, California is investing $2.4 million over the next three years to establish the Statewide Special Education Parent Action Network, led by the State Council on Developmental Disabilities (SCDD). This new statewide initiative is designed to bring parents, caregivers, advocates, and community partners together to help improve special education services across California.
The network will focus on:
- Empowering families through education and advocacy
- Helping parents understand their rights under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
- Identifying barriers families face when accessing services
- Elevating the voices and experiences of students and their families
- Supporting long-term improvements to California’s special education system
At Canaan Cares, we know that informed families are empowered families. Every parent deserves the knowledge and confidence to advocate for the services their loved one needs to thrive.
We also recognize that meaningful change happens when communities stay engaged. Whether that means sharing your experiences, participating in public feedback opportunities, attending community meetings, or supporting organizations that advocate for individuals with disabilities, every voice matters.
Our team remains committed to connecting families with valuable resources, promoting self-advocacy, and helping to support all individuals as they pursue greater independence and opportunity.
Together, we can continue building communities where every individual is valued, every family feels supported, and every voice has the opportunity to be heard.
To learn more about the State Council on Developmental Disabilities and the new Statewide Special Education Parent Action Network, visit www.scdd.ca.gov.
To learn how Canaan Cares supports individuals and families throughout Southern California, visit www.canaancares.org.
