The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal law in the United States governing special education services for children with disabilities. IDEA was first enacted in 1975 and has been amended several times since then to enhance the rights and protections of children with disabilities and their families.

The primary purpose of IDEA is to ensure that all children with disabilities have access to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) that is tailored to their individual needs. IDEA provides guidelines and procedures for identifying, evaluating, and providing special education and related services to eligible children.

Key provisions of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act include:

Eligibility

IDEA covers children and youth with disabilities, ranging from birth to 21 years of age, who require special education and related services due to a qualifying disability.

Individualized Education Program (IEP)

Each eligible child must have an individualized education program developed by a team that includes parents, teachers, and other relevant professionals. The IEP outlines the child's educational goals, accommodations, and specialized services.

Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)

IDEA mandates that children with disabilities are entitled to receive a free and appropriate education in the least restrictive environment. This means that schools must provide services that meet the unique needs of each child, without charge to the family.

Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)

Students with disabilities should be educated in the least restrictive environment that allows for maximum interaction with non-disabled peers, to the extent appropriate to their needs. This could include placement in regular classrooms with appropriate support or specialized settings as necessary.

Related Services

IDEA ensures that children with disabilities receive necessary support services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, counseling, transportation, and other related services that are necessary to benefit from their education.

Procedural Safeguards

IDEA establishes procedural safeguards to protect the rights of children with disabilities and their families, including the right to participate in the decision-making process, the right to receive prior written notice of any changes to the child's educational program, and the right to dispute resolution through mediation or due process hearings.

By providing a legal framework for special education services, IDEA has significantly improved educational opportunities for children with disabilities in the United States. It emphasizes the importance of inclusion, individualization, and collaboration among educators, parents, and professionals to ensure that children with disabilities can reach their full potential.

West Virginia State Board of Education Policy 2419 Regulations for the Education of Students with Exceptionalities

West Virginia Department of Education Office of Special Education

U.S. Department of Education - Individuals with Disabilities Act

West Virginia School Board Association

Chapter XIX: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act and Section 504 Under the Rehabilitation Act

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

Section 504 Under the Rehabilitation Act

The Eligibility Criteria and Scope of Coverage Differ Between Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

WV School Law

Printable PDF Copy of Chapter XIX.. Pending Revision