California Education Code (Part 30, Chapter 2, Article 7, 56190) requires each Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA) to establish a Community Advisory Committee for Special Education (CAC). CAC serves in an advisory capacity to the Board of Education and Special Education administration on the implementation of the Local Plan.

This plan is a legal document that describes how San Diego Unified provides services to students with exceptional needs. CAC membership is comprised of parents with students who receive special education services, parents with students in general education, district staff from both special and general education, community agency representatives and any community member who is interested in special education.

The Committee meets 10 months per year. Although CAC nominates potential members, the board appoints them. Any parent of a student in the district, staff or community member may attend and participate in CAC meetings.