Press Release: Education for All – A Closer Look at the Impact of IDEA on Students with Disabilities
For decades, school-aged children with disabilities were often denied access to education, confined instead to institutional settings with minimal educational opportunities. This troubling reality began to change with the enactment of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in 1975, which mandated free and appropriate public education for students ages 3 to 21 with disabilities.
IDEA currently supports 7.5 million students, representing 15.2% of the public school population in the United States. The majority of these students are integrated into regular education classrooms, with 63% spending 80% or more of their school day alongside their peers. This inclusion marks a significant shift in educational practices that were largely unthinkable prior to IDEA.
Despite this progress, challenges remain. The methods for identifying students with learning disabilities lack uniformity across school districts, leading to disparities in support and resources. Furthermore, a national teacher shortage exacerbates the situation, with 21% of public schools reporting at least one vacancy in special education roles for the 2022-23 school year.
Recent analysis by AccessiBe, utilizing data from the National Center for Education Statistics, highlights the varied experiences of students under IDEA. It also invites a comparison of Missouri’s educational landscape to that of the nation. As advocates continue to push for equitable education, understanding the nuances in how different districts implement IDEA remains critical in ensuring that every child receives the education they deserve.
For more insights and detailed statistics on Missouri’s status relative to other states, follow AccessiBe’s ongoing research. Education is a fundamental right, and efforts must continue to ensure that it is accessible to all students, regardless of ability.
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