The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act was passed in 1975 and guarantees students access to a free, appropriate public education (FAPE). Schools must screen for students who might have a disability, and provide an IEP to students who qualify. In the IEP there will be accommodations, modifications, and services that help the student receive FAPE.
Who does IDEA protect?
IDEA protects students who have been identified as having a disability, and whose disability affects their education. IDEA currently recognizes 13 categories of disabilities:
Follow your students' IEPs to the letter, it is a binding contract.
Keep updated on any changes to IDEA.
Inform parents of their rights.
Sources Lee, Andrew M.I. “Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA): What You Need to Know.” Understood.org, Understood, www.understood.org/en/school-learning/your-childs-rights/basics-about-childs-rights/individuals-with-disabilities-education-act-idea-what-you-need-to-know. “Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).” American Psychological Association, American Psychological Association, www.apa.org/advocacy/education/idea/.