Explain the Importance of the Individuals with Disabilities Act
Without the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) most students with physical, mental and learning disabilities in the U.S. would not have the opportunity to receive free public education.
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Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
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The IDEA is a Federal law passed by the United States Congress that provides free public education for disabled individuals, aged three to 21. Every state that accepts funding under the IDEA will provide free education for over 13 physical and mental disabilities, including deafness, blindness and mental retardation.
Purpose of the IDEA
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The purpose of the act is to give individuals with disabilities free specialized education so that they are prepared for continuing their education, future employment and a chance at an independent lifestyle.
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History of EHA and IDEA
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The IDEA is actually a statute formerly known as the Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EHA). It was renamed the IDEA in 1990 after Congress revamped the act with more specifications, including the Individualized Education Program. This program accesses each particular disability and modifies lesson plans accordingly.
Before the EHA was enacted, only one-fifth of students with disabilities were being taught in public schools.
Impact
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Currently, under the IDEA, over 6.5 million students with disabilities are being provided with early intervention, special education and related services.
IDEA and the No Child Left Behind Act
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In alignment with the No Child Left Behind Act that was created in 2001, the IDEA has now expanded to also include children with learning disabilities. It also gives financial incentives for improving special education programs.
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