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Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 2004 (IDEA)

The Individual with Disabilities Education Act, (IDEA) is our nation's special education law. The IDEA guides how states, school districts, and public agencies provide early intervention, special education, and related services to more than 6.5 million eligible infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities.

IDEA was originally enacted by Congress in 1975 to ensure that children with disabilities have the opportunity to receive a free appropriate public education, just like other children. The IDEA law has been revised several times over the years. The most recent revisions were passed in December 2004, with final regulations published in August 2006.

IEP Process

Every child with a disability who is eligible for exceptional student education (ESE) will have an Individual Educational Plan (IEP). The IEP is an individualized written plan that supports the need for specialized supports and services. Parents and teachers consider the IEP to be their child’s educational road map.  In this section we will provide you with information and resources on the ESE process and developing an appropriate IEP for your child. 

Strategies

The following documents provide help in developing an effective and efficient IEP for your child

Getting Ready for Your Child’s I E P Meeting
http://www.fldoe.org/ese/pdf/iep-card.pdf

Present Levels of Educational Performance
http://www.fldoe.org/ese/pdf/ieplevel.pdf

Making Annual Goals, Short-Term Objectives, and Benchmarks Measurable
http://www.fldoe.org/ese/pdf/y2005-2.pdf

Accommodations and Modifications:  What Parents Need To Know
http://www.fldoe.org/ese/pdf/ac-mod-parents.pdf

Training 1

Introduction to Special Education

QuickTime is required to view the training video. If you do not have QuickTime, you can download it here.

Introduction to Special Education

Training 2

Exceptional Student Education

QuickTime is required to view the training video. If you do not have QuickTime, you can download it here.

Exceptional Student Education - Understanding the Eligibility Process