Pennsylvania recognized for IDEA compliance

July 18--Pennsylvania has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for compliance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Part B, according to a statement from the Pennsylvania Department of Education.

This is the 10th consecutive year that the state has been recognized for its performance.

"It is an honor for the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to be recognized for ten years of dedicated service to some of our most vulnerable populations," Secretary of Education Pedro Rivera said in a statement. "I am proud of the work we are collectively doing and I applaud our educators, administrators, and staff for their commitment to excellence in providing a high-quality education to our students."

The Individuals with Disabilities Act is a federal law that ensures students with disabilities have access to a free and appropriate public education. It governs how states and public agencies provide early intervention, special education and related services.

The distinction was given to the commonwealth for programs that serve both school-aged children from ages three to 21 and children under the age of two, according to the statement.

Pennsylvania was evaluated based on data collected from the state performance plan, annual performance report, student participation in statewide assessments and participation data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress.

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