This digest analyzes the definitions of disability in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). It notes that, in order to be eligible for special education services under the act, the child must meet two criteria: (1) he/she must have one or more of the specific disabilities listed in the act, and (2)he/she must require special…

American Indian and Alaska Native students with limited English proficiency are overrepresented in special education programs. This digest briefly reviews the legislation and literature pertaining to the influence of language and culture in making referrals, administering assessments, and providing appropriate services to Native students.…

This digest examines how the concepts of least restrictive environment, mainstreaming, and inclusion have been developed by Congress and the courts. An introductory discussion of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) notes that Congress did not define the concept of least restrictive environment, but left it to the courts to shape…

This digest discusses the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act requirements which state that all students, regardless of their abilities, be given the opportunity to become involved with and progress in the general education curriculum. It describes how educators can use a curriculum that has been universally designed to ensure…

This information sheet summarizes requirements of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act regarding inclusion of students with disabilities in general education classrooms and lists activities and support systems that have been found successful in fostering such inclusion. Suggestions are given in the areas of attitudes and beliefs,…

This digest discusses the new requirement under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act that Individualized Education Program teams conduct a functional behavioral assessment (FBA) and implement behavior intervention plans that include positive behavioral interventions and supports for students with disabilities. It describes the purpose…

This brief paper presents a comparative overview of three major federal laws affecting people with disabilities: the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA), the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Presented in chart form, the three pieces of legislation are compared for the…

The comprehensiveness and effectiveness of school-to-work transition activities are limited by staff and time. The unique and complicated counseling needs of students with disabilities require the involvement of other actors, primarily parents. Youth with disabilities and their parents must be knowledgeable about vocational opportunities and…

This Digest discusses provisions in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that require functional behavioral assessments (FBAs) and behavioral intervention plans (BIPs) to be conducted prior to a change in placement or suspension for more than 10 days, based on inappropriate behaviors for students with disabilities. It presents…