The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is defined on About.com as "a law that provisions service and support to children with disabilities throughout the US. IDEA governs how states and public agencies provide early intervention, special education and related services to US children. IDEA, ensures that children with disabilities receive a “free appropriate public education” (FAPE). This means that schools will provide Students who are eligible (have a disability) with specialize supports/instruction that will address their academic needs in the least restrictive environment."


 IDEA uses 9 basic steps to identify, evaluate, determine eligibility, create an Individual Education Plan (IEP), measure progress, and reevaluate the IEP of students with disabilities. It is important that all K-12 educators have some familiarity with IDEA. Please visit IDEA.ed.gov for more information.