JoAnna S.Ross

IDEA: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a nation’s special education law. It was enacted over three decades ago; this law provides federal funding to help assist states and local communities providing educational opportunities for many students with different degrees of disabilities who need special education. In exchange for federal funding, IDEA requires states that provide a free appropriate public education (FAPE) and in the least restrictive environment (LRE). Also, the law contains detailed processes and provisions to ensure the provision of FAPE. IDEA was to be put in place to increase the awareness of the need to educate children with disabilities if they provide an education for children without disabilities.There are six major components to this act

· A free appropriate public education (FAPE) All children, regardless of the severity of their disability must be provided with an unique education appropriate to their needs at no cost to parents or guardians

· The least restrictive environment(LRE) children with disabilities are to be educated, with the maximum extent appropriate, with students without disabilities

· An individual education program(IEP) This is an individually tailored statement describing an educational plan for each learner with exceptionalities

· Procedural due process-The act affords parents/guardians several safeguards as it pertains to their child’s education.

· Nondiscriminatory assessment-Prior to placement, a child must be evaluated by a multidisciplinary team in all areas of suspected disability by teats that are neither racially or culturally nor linguistically biased.

· Parental participation- PL 94-142 mandates meaningful parent involvement. It requires parents to participate fully in the decision-making process that affects their child’s education.

· Compliance with this act is very important since it is considered landmark legislation for helping children with disabilities. This act insures that children of all ages receive an adequate education and are treated with respect and dignity. Without compliance with IDEA children with disabilities cannot grow to become a more productive member of society.

JoAnna S.Ross SPE 300