Early Start Complaint Process

Any person or organization who believes that a regional center, local education agency or service provider receiving Early Start (Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) funds has violated a federal or state law or regulation may file a complaint.

The complaint should be filed with the Department of Developmental Services:

ATTN: Chief, Early Start Development Section
1600 Ninth Street
Sacramento, CA 9581

 

APPEALS AND COMPLAINTS

To review the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) Appeals and Complaints Webpage, click here.

The complaint should include:

  • The name, address and phone number of the complainant
  • A statement of the alleged violation and agency involved
  • A statement of facts upon which violation is based
  • The parties responsible and a description of voluntary steps taken at the local level to resolve the complaint, if any.

Within 60 calendar days or receipt, the Department of Developmental Services shall conduct an independent investigation, review all relevant information, and provide a written decision to all parties. This decision may be appealed to the U.S. Secretary of Education at the Office of Special Education Programs.

This complaint process is not for resolving disputes concerning the identification, evaluation, assessment, placement or provision of appropriate early intervention services for an individual child. Contact your service coordinator to obtain information on due process procedures.

 

Early Start Parent’s Rights

South Central Los Angeles Regional Center (SCLARC) provides education, assessment, training and services in the communities of South Los Angeles, Watts, Leimert Park, Florence/Firestone, West Adams, and the cities of Bell, Bell Gardens, Compton, Cudahy, Downey, Huntington Park, Lynwood, Maywood, Vernon, South Gate, North Carson, Gardena, and Paramount.