Religious private schools can take special education placements but may not teach them religion
Private schools serving special education students no longer have to be nonsectarian, but public money cannot pay for religious instruction and placed students cannot receive it. The schools face new background check, credential and incident reporting rules.
Who it affects
Nonpublic special education schools and agencies, school districts, families
When
This law takes effect on January 1, 2027. California laws take effect on January 1 of the year after they are signed, unless the law says otherwise.
- : Signed into law
- : This law takes effect
- : Applications must show fingerprint clearance for uncredentialed staff
- : Applications must list all teaching staff with their credentials
Official text
California SB 685: Special education: nonpublic schools and agencies.
On California Legislative Information. The official text is what counts; read it before you act.
Not legal advice. Plain-English summaries to help you find what changes and when. Not legal advice: read the official text, and ask a lawyer about your situation.