Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a U.S. federal law governing how states and public agencies provide early intervention, special education and related services to children and families. Enacted in 1975, the law upholds the U.S. Constitution 14th Amendment which says all children deserve equal opportunity to be included in public education.

Since enactment, children with disabilities are accessing free and appropriate public education with improved educational outcomes as a result of the special education and related services support provided by their local schools.