What is IDEA?

The Individuals With Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 (IDEA 2004) is an education law that guides the provision of school-based services. The law has four main goals:

1. Provide free appropriate public education (FAPE)
2. Protect the rights of parents and students with disabilities
3. Assist schools and other organizations in providing education to all children with disabilities
4. Assess the effectiveness of special education programs

You can learn more about IDEA and review the IDEA Toolkit by reviewing the IDEA Parent Guide developed by the National Center for Learning Disabilities.

What is an IEP?

An IEP is an Individualized Education Program. This program is developed when a student qualifies for special education services. The IEP is a document that describes the services a student will receive to help him participate in school.