Iowa IDEA Information

In Iowa, the Department of Education, Area Education Agencies, and local school districts partner and collaborate to ensure quality special education and early intervention services are provided to all eligible individuals, birth to 21, as outlined in Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Special education and early intervention services, supports, and activities are provided at no cost to parents.

Visit the i3 Website

Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP)

The Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) is dedicated to improving results for infants, toddlers, children and youth with disabilities ages birth through 21 by providing leadership and financial support to assist states and local districts.

Visit the OSEP Website

Treatment Choices and Evidence-Based Practices

Families are encouraged to ask their child's doctor or provider questions about the treatment being recommended and should come prepared with a notebook to record the answers to their questions. Families should also share their values and preferences with providers.

Learn more from ASK Resource Center

Open Enrollment

In Iowa, all parents may request their child attend a district other than their district of residence through the open enrollment process.

View the I3 Website

Infographic - Participating in Virtual IEP Meetings

At times, you may not be able to join a special education meeting in person. Fortunately, technology allows meetings to be held virtually, by phone or via the Internet. This is now happening with many different kinds of meetings-IEP Team meetings, mediations, resolution sessions, and due process hearings.

Check out the IDEAs that Work Infographic