CAC Mission

The CAC's ultimate goal is to ensure that students succeed in maximizing their potential, receive the best possible education, and have equal access to all services. The CAC collaborates with the local SELPA to ensure that the educational requirements of special education students are met. The CAC serves as a liaison between SELPA, the Sonoma County Office of Education (SCOE), local districts, families, community members, students, and teachers, so that all voices are heard. The organization also provides consumer education, information, and referral to resources. The Sonoma County Community Advisory Committee (CAC) advises the local Special Education Local Plan Area (SELPA) as specified by the State Education Code Part 30, Sections 56001, 56190-56194, 56195.7, 56195.9, 56200, 56205, 56240, 56728.7, and 56780.

More information about the CAC and its operations can be found in the CAC Bylaws.

CAC Officers

  • Chairperson - Emily King 
  • Vice-Chairperson - Open 
  • Liaison to Special Education Advisory Committee - Open 
  • Past Chairperson - Sarah Ponsford
  • Members - Jennifer Lemas, Nora Parajon, Virginia Schiff, Larkin O'Leary
  • SELPA Representative - Janel Plack

Message from the CAC president

 

 

2025-2026 Meeting Schedule

We invite parents and guardians, educators, administrators, service providers, and community members to join us throughout the school year at our scheduled meetings.  All meetings are open to the public.  These meetings are held in a hybrid format - in person at SCOE (5340 Skylane Boulevard, Santa Rosa) and via video link (see Zoom link below).  Meetings begin at 6:00 p.m. with a business session, followed by an informational session presented by a guest speaker or panel of presenters.

 

Zoom Link:

https://sonomacoe.zoom.us/j/88088033082

 
Date (Click on the Date for the Meeting Flyer)  Location Topic Recording
September 22, 2025 SCOE: Skylane Blvd Santa Rosa CA 95403    
November 17, 2025 SCOE: Skylane Blvd Santa Rosa CA 95403    
January 26, 2026 SCOE: Skylane Blvd Santa Rosa CA 95403    
March 2, 2026

SCOE: Skylane Blvd Santa Rosa CA 95403

   

 

 

2025-2026 Mini Meeting Schedule

These mini meetings will only be held via Zoom from 12:00p.m. - 12:45p.m.  They will not replace regular scheduled meetings and are a new addition to our CAC. These meetings are being offered as another option for the community to connect with us.  We will be focusing on "Understanding the Special Education System" throughout the coming year

 

Zoom Link:

https://sonomacoe.zoom.us/j/88088033082

 
Date  Location Topic Recording
October 14, 2025 Virtual Via Zoom    
December 9, 2025 Virtual Via Zoom    
February 10, 2026 Virtual Via Zoom    
April 14, 2026

Virtual Via Zoom

   

 

Helpful Links

Sonoma CAC Brochure (English)

Sonoma CAC Brochure (Spanish)

Legislature Contact Links (County and Above)

CAC By-Laws

23-24 Archived Agendas