On the 40th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the Council for Exceptional Children reflects on the efforts of children and youth with disabilities, their families, educators, and policymakers who were instrumental in the passage of this legislation and remain committed to ensuring that individuals with disabilities attain a lifetime of success.
On November 29, 1975, President Gerald Ford signed into law the Education for all Handicapped Children Act (P.L. 94 – 142), legislation that paved the way for improved educational outcomes for individuals with disabilities. CEC was at the forefront of the advocacy effort – alongside many parents, organizations and individuals with disabilities – a movement that marked a dramatic shift in how our nation supports and educates individuals with disabilities.
CEC Celebrates 40 Years of IDEA!
Visit CEC’s IDEA40 website to access more information about the anniversary and valuable resources.
Tell us: What has IDEA meant to you?
Please submit a brief reflection about how IDEA has impacted your life.
What part of history did you play?
What have been your major accomplishments and successes as a special educator?
What do you wish for the future of special education?
We will be sharing your reflections on IDEA40 through the end of December 2015. CEC wants to hear from you. Share your reflections in the comment section below.