Today we honor the IDEA — the law that opened doors, protected student rights, & created the foundation for the work school-based OTs do every day. The Dept of ED is facing threats that could weaken federal oversight of special education. As advocates for inclusion our voices are needed. #IDEA50thOT

7.5 million students, 3-21 years old receive special education, & 540,000 infants and toddlers under 3 years old receive early intervention services mandated by IDEA. 50 years ago, children with disabilities were not guaranteed a right to a free & appropriate public education. #IDEA50thOT

The federal gov currently provides around $12-13 B annually under IDEA, but that still covers less than 12-15% of the nation’s cost of educating students with disabilities, far from the original 40% promise. Advocacy groups estimate a funding gap of nearly $39 B in 2024–25. #IDEA50thOT #aota

Share how you are celebrating the 50th Anniversary of IDEA use #IDEA50thOT to tag your post!

❤️ IDEA has opened the doors of education for millions of students. Occupational therapy helps ensure those doors lead to meaningful participation, learning, and growth.❤️

#IDEA50thOT #occupationaltherapy #schoolbasedOT #aota #specialed

LRE means students with dis should be educated with their non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate. It’s about access & support, not just physical presence. The focus is on belonging, participation, & meaningful learning, not just physical placement.
#IDEA50thOT

FAPE ensures every eligible child with a disability has access to spec ed & related services designed to meet their unique needs. OTPs help ensure students can participate in their educ programs, access the curriculum, & engage in daily school routines & activities. #IDEA50thOT

Before 1975, more than 1M children with disabilities were excluded from public schools, and millions more did not receive the specialized instruction or services they needed. Families often had to fight for their children’s right to simply attend school. #IDEA50thOT

President Gerald Ford signed the Education for All Handicapped Children Act on November 29, 1975. This legislation marked a historic commitment to inclusion and equity in education. #IDEA50thOT

AOTA CYSIS is excited to share the IDEA 50th Anniversary Toolkit. Inside you’ll find: handout; activities for the whole school, classrooms, & OT sessions; displays; & resources.
Download the toolkit here: cysis.aota.org/advocacy/
Show us how you’re celebrating! Post photos using #IDEA50thOT

Join the AOTA CYSIS in celebrating 50 years of IDEA! Reflect with occupational therapy practitioners across the country on what IDEA means for us today and the future.
#IDEA50thOT #occupationaltherapy #pediatricoccupationaltherapy #pedsot #schoolbasedot #schoolbasedoccupationaltherapy #aota