The Arc of Western Wayne County: Serving people with disabilities

The Take Charge Helpline

What is IDEA?

In 1975, Congress passed Public Law 94-142, also known as the Education of All Handicapped Children Act, which is now known as IDEA, or the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. In order to receive federal funds, states must develop and implement policies that assure a free appropriate public education to all children with disabilities.

IDEA provides funds to assist states in the education of students with disabilities and requires that states make sure that these students receive an individualized education program based on their unique needs in the least restrictive environment possible.  IDEA also provides guidelines for determining what related services are necessary, for example speech therapy, transportation or recreation, and outlines a due process procedure to make sure these needs are adequately met.

There are many more topics related to IDEA and Special Education available on the Take Charge Help Line.  If you have questions or need more information, you can call The Michigan Department of Special Education at 517-373-0923 or The Arc at 734-729-9100.

Phone code: 1604