WPLLC > Policy Expertise > Disability Policy and Special Education > IDEA

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

Enacted in 1975 as the Education for All Handicapped Children Act, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a cornerstone federal investment for people with disabilities. Originally intended to ensure that students with disabilities had access to public education following years of exclusion by public schools, the law now promotes participation in the general education curriculum and inclusion in the appropriate requirements of the No Child Left Behind Act. IDEA serves over seven million students with disabilities from ages 0 to 21 providing a free appropriate public education to each in the least restrictive environment. Several national programs authorized by IDEA represent unique national investments in personnel preparation, professional development, research, technology, technical assistance and parent participation.

Principals at Washington Partners, LLC have been involved with IDEA for over 20 years, participating in reauthorizations, influencing regulations, briefing congressional committees, chairing coalitions, researching policy implementation and advising stakeholder organizations. As former special educators themselves, WPLLC's principals bring the unique perspective of teachers, administrators and university faculty. Recognized as experts in special education, WPLLC's principals are often invited to speak at national and international conferences and write articles for special education journals.