IDEA46 | Transcending Barriers, Past and Present

By Katherine (Katy) Neas, Deputy Assistant Secretary
Delegated the authority to perform the functions and duties of the Assistant Secretary for the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services

This month marks 46 years since the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) was enacted. I couldn’t let this anniversary pass without sharing some reflections about the importance of IDEA, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, and reaffirming the commitment of the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS) to upholding this landmark civil rights law.

The last 18 months have challenged schools, families, and students in countless ways. Together, they navigated situations no one ever anticipated. In my role at OSERS, I’ve heard from some parents that their children struggled mightily with virtual learning. Others have told me that their children thrived. Yet, during this time when uncertainty was pervasive, a few things remained constant. The vast majority of educators — general education teachers, special education teachers, early intervention services providers, specialized instructional school personnel, administrators and others — were heroic in their commitment to meeting infants, toddlers and students’ needs. Families and caregivers did all they could to support and advocate for their learners. And the protections of IDEA [...]

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