The IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) governs how the state and other public agencies, specifically school districts, provide intervention, education and other pertinent services to students with education-hindering disabilities.

Under this act, school districts are required to identify and evaluate all children in their district of which are suspected to have any form of disability that will inhibit their educational growth. These evaluations, with parental consent, must be conducted at least once every three years.

Specific to children ages 3 to 21 (preschool to graduation), the disabled child must fall within certain qualifying conditions to be eligible for the services provided under the IDEA. These conditions include: autism, speech and/or language impairments, traumatic brain injury, visual and/or hearing impairment, emotional disturbance and other health impairments.

Our School Law attorneys are experienced and knowledgeable with the requirements and regulations of the IDEA. We can guide you through the process of addressing and handling these emotional situations to best protect and benefit all involved – especially the special needs of the student.