Individuals with Disabilities (IDEA definition)

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) defines individuals with disabilities as those who have a recognized physical or mental impairment that significantly affects their ability to perform important life activities, such as learning, communicating, or interacting socially. This law ensures that children with disabilities are entitled to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) tailored to their unique needs. IDEA covers various conditions, including but not limited to autism, learning disabilities, and physical impairments, and emphasizes the importance of individualized education plans (IEPs) to support each child's educational journey.