The landmark Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, commonly known as IDEA, celebrated its 50th anniversary this past weekend on Nov. 29. Since 1975, the IDEA has ensured a free and appropriate public education for children and youth with disabilities across the country. In Iowa, special education programs and services support close to 76,000 students and learners, offering high-quality opportunities to learn and succeed.

To help celebrate the 50th anniversary of the IDEA, the Iowa Department of Education has released a new video, capturing testimonies on how this historic law has impacted children across Iowa.

For more information on the IDEA in Iowa, visit the Department’s I3 Iowa IDEA Information website