Education
In 1975, Congress passed Public Law 94-142, the Education for All Handicapped Children Act, now called the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This law guarantees access to a free public education through Grade 12 (high school graduation) for children with disabilities.
In late 2001, the IDEA debate centers on both level of funding and when discipline is allowed. IDEA amendments on both these issues have been included as part of Congress's required "re-authorization" of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). The Senate - but not House - version of the ESEA bill includes added IDEA funding, while both versions have provisions to increase discipline of students with disabilities. One possibility is that decisions on both discipline and funding will be deferred until 2002, when Congress must "re-authorize" IDEA.
Documents:
- CCD Education Task Force Members Analysis of H.R. 1350 House Passed Bill to Reauthorize IDEA
- Paige Releases Principles for Reauthorizing Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
- Suits Contend Officials Fail to Obey ESEA
- A Quality Teacher in Every Classroom
- School's Mission Now in Question: 'Inclusion' of Disabled Students Becomes a Divisive Issue in MD, Post 3/7/03
- President’s Commission on Excellence in Special Education Commission Background
- Congressman Lauds UCP Support for IDEA Full-Funding Legislation
- Centers for Independent Living; Notice Inviting Applications for New Awards for Fiscal Year (FY) 2001
- NIH Parental Report: Impact of Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity May Be Underestimated
- GAO Report on Special Education: Clearer Guidance Would Enhance Implementation of Federal Disciplinary Provisions