IDEA 2004

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 (IDEA 2004) helps to ensure equity, accountability and excellence in education for children with disabilities. There are approximately 6.7 million children and youth with disabilities in public schools across the United States. [ [http://www.wrightslaw.com/idea/index.htm Special Education Law Library: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 2004 (IDEA 2004) - Wrightslaw ] ] It was signed into law by President George W. Bush on December 3, 2004. It authorizes formula grants to states, discretionary grants for research, and technology and training. [ [http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/osep/index.html Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) - Home Page ] ] The latest revision of IDEA became effective in October 2006.

IDEA 1997 vs. IDEA 2004

When IDEA 2004 was reauthorized by Congress significant changes were made to Individualized Education Plan (IEP) including:
1. Content of the IEP -This encompasses annual goals, educational progress, special education and related services, accommodations and alternative assessments, and transitions.
2. IEP meeting attendance - A member of the IEP team may be excused if the team member's service will not be discussed at the meeting. This must be approved by the school and the parents.
3. IEPs by agreement
4. review and revision of IEPs
5. transition
6. alternate means of participating in meetings. [http://www.wrightslaw.com/idea/art/iep.roadmap.htm]

ee also

*Response to intervention

References

3. http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/osep/index.html

4. http://www.wrightslaw.com/idea/art/iep.roadmap.htm