# Individuals with Disabilities Education Act — Definition & Explanation

> From the SchoolBrowse Education Glossary.
> HTML version: https://schoolbrowse.com/glossary/individuals-with-disabilities-education-act

**In short:** Federal law ensuring students with disabilities receive free appropriate public education through special education services.
The **Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)** is the federal law that ensures students with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE) designed to meet their unique needs. Originally passed in 1975 as the Education for All Handicapped Children Act, IDEA has been reauthorized several times.

## Key IDEA Principles

IDEA establishes six core principles: Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE), appropriate evaluation, Individualized Education Program (IEP), Least Restrictive Environment (LRE), parent and student participation, and procedural safeguards. These principles guide how schools identify and serve students with disabilities.

## Disability Categories Under IDEA

IDEA recognizes 13 disability categories: autism, deaf-blindness, deafness, emotional disturbance, hearing impairment, intellectual disability, multiple disabilities, orthopedic impairment, other health impairment, specific learning disability, speech or language impairment, traumatic brain injury, and visual impairment.

## Frequently asked questions

**Q: What does IDEA require schools to do?**

Schools must identify students with disabilities, evaluate them appropriately, develop IEPs, provide services in the least restrictive environment, and include parents in decision-making.
**Q: What ages does IDEA cover?**

IDEA covers children from birth through age 21, including early intervention (birth-2) and special education services (ages 3-21).
**Q: Is IDEA the same as a 504 plan?**

No. IDEA provides special education services through IEPs. Section 504 provides accommodations in general education. IDEA has more specific requirements and protections.

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