FCSS is the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools. FCSS has several roles in public education. However, for our purposes, FCSS provides two separate functions:

(1) FCSS serves as the Responsible Local Agency for the Fresno County Charter SELPA. It is designated in the local plan as the Administrative Unit, with duties that include receiving and distributing regionalized services funds, providing administrative support, and coordinating the implementation of the plan. Those services can be viewed here.

(2) FCSS is an optional contract service provider for member charter schools. A list of current services and programs for both the Charter SELPA and Special Education Services by Contract can be viewed here.

What's the difference between SELPA, Special Education, and FCSS?

A SELPA is the organization with member school districts and charter schools. The SELPA organization ensures that students with disabilities receive special education and related services in the least restrictive environment. The typical size of a SELPA is large so that its members can pull resources to fulfill this requirement. Like a school district, the SELPA has a governing body, policies and procedures, and an administrative staff. 

Special Education is the actual service. These services can be provided by the school district or charter school themselves. However, districts and charters may wish to pull resources and funding, and have the services provided on a regional scale. Throughout the State, many districts and charters in SELPAs have decided to do this, such as having services for students with severe disabilities provided at a single location. 

FCSS, the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools, is the agency that houses the Fresno County Charter SELPA, and is called the Responsible Local Agency and/or the Administrative Unit.