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Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA)

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a law ensuring services to children with disabilities throughout the nation. IDEA governs how states and public agencies provide early intervention, special education and related services to more than 6.5 million eligible infants, toddlers, children and youth with disabilities. Infants and toddlers with disabilities (birth-2) and their families receive early intervention services under IDEA Part C. Children and youth (ages 3-21) receive special education and related services under IDEA Part B.

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act states that "Disability is a natural part of the human experience and in no way diminishes the right of individuals to participate in or contribute to society. Improving educational results for children with disabilities is an essential element of our national policy of ensuring equality of opportunity, full participation, independent living, and economic self-sufficiency for individuals with disabilities..."

Recent Changes to IDEA -

The U.S. Department of Education has posted an unofficial copy of new Final Regulations related to parental consent for the use of public benefits or insurance to pay for services under Part B of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The official copy is scheduled to be included in tomorrow’s Federal Register. The new regulations will be effective as of March 18, 2013. Visit their website to see the regulations, one-page summary, and a 7-page Q&A document.

Final IDEA Part C Regulations: Critical Changes (9/8/11)

 

“Implementing Final Part C Regulations: Making It Work in California" (90 minutes each): 
View recording of Part I   l   View recording of Part II

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