Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) serves more than 6.5 million children in our nation's schools and preserves a free, appropriate public education for children with disabilities, including students with communication disorders. Infants and toddlers with disabilities (birth-2) and their families receive early intervention services under IDEA Part C, and children and youth (3-21) receive special education and related services under IDEA Part B. 

IDEA

Learn more about what IDEA really means and its impact on the professions by reading the issue briefs.

IDEA Part B (ages 3–21) Regulations and Issue Briefs

• 2013 IDEA Part B (ages 3–21)
• Parental Consent and Use of Public Insurance
• FAQs About Parental Consent and Use of Public Benefits or Insurance
• 2008 IDEA Part B (ages 3–21)
• ASHA Analysis: 2008 IDEA Part B Supplemental Final Regulations [PDF]
• IDEA Funding Chart 1977–2014 [PDF]
• 2007 OSEP Guidance on Missed Sessions ( OSEP's Response Letter of Guidance [PDF])
• 2006 IDEA Part B (ages 3–21)

Other Resources

• Visit the U.S. Department of Education's website on IDEA, Building the Legacy: IDEA 2004.
• Order free publications from the U.S. Department of Education.
• IDEA Data Accountability Center (DAC)
• IDEA and FERPA Confidentiality Provisions [PDF]
• Dear Colleague Letter [PDF]: Clarification of FAPE and Alignment with State Academic Standards
• IDEAs That Work: Preparing Children and Youth with Disabilities for Success
• Supporting and Responding to Behavior: Evidence-Based Classroom Strategies for Teachers toolkit

IDEA Part C (birth–age 2) Regulations and Issue Briefs

2011 IDEA Part C (birth–age 2)

Additional ASHA Resource

IDEA Milestones: 1975–2013

Take Action on Congressional IDEA Related Issues

Key Issues