Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

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The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the federal law that supports infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families (Part C), as well as supporting special education and related services for students with disabilities (Part B).

Each Regional Center has an IDEA Specialist and at ACRC, we refer to this individual as our Education Support Manager who collaborates closely with educational partners across ACRC’s 10-county catchment area. Our special education team conducts consultation clinics and monthly education workshops for Service Coordinators. The team identifies and bridges gaps for children and families transitioning from IDEA Part C to Part B services, and students following their secondary school completion. ACRC hosts quarterly community education workshops. Please join us!

To learn more about community workshops and training opportunities and special education resources, contact your Service Coordinator or Special Education – Alta California Regional Center, or Education Support Manager Kristine Gamberg at (916) 290-4225 or kgamberg@altaregional.org.

IDEA includes four parts:

  • Part A (General Provisions)
  • Part B (Special Education Services (ages 3-21)
    • In California, Part B covers ages 3-22
    • IDEA calls for a free appropriate public education (FAPE) for every student with an identified disability.
    • Education must be delivered in the least restrictive environment (LRE)
    • Requires that students with disabilities be educated in general education settings, alongside students without disabilities, as long as this setting is proven to be appropriate.
    • Promotes concepts of inclusion
  • Part C (Early Intervention Services) (0-36 months)
  • Authorizes a grant program for each state to implement a system of early intervention services for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families.
  • Implementation of public awareness and Child Find activities to identify infants and toddlers who may be eligible for early intervention services.
  • Provides services in the natural environment.
  • Part D (National Activities to Improve Education of Children with Disabilities)