(a) Special classes that serve pupils with similar and more intensive educational needs shall be available. The special classes may enroll pupils only when the nature or severity of the disability of the individual with exceptional needs is such that education in the regular classes with the use of supplementary aids and services, including curriculum modification and behavioral support, cannot be achieved satisfactorily. These requirements also apply to separate schooling, or other removal of individuals with exceptional needs from the regular educational environment.
(b) In providing or arranging for the provision of activities, each public agency shall ensure that each individual with exceptional needs participates in those activities with nondisabled pupils to the maximum extent appropriate to the needs of the individual with exceptional needs, including nonacademic and extracurricular services and activities. Special classes shall meet standards adopted by the board.
(c) This section shall only apply to special education local plan areas that have had a revised local plan approved pursuant to Section 56836.03.
(Added by renumbering Section 56364.5 (as added by Stats. 1997, Ch. 854) by Stats. 1998, Ch. 691, Sec. 38. Effective January 1, 1999.)