DINF Web Posted on December 15, 1997

Dear Friend:

I am very proud to share with you the Department of Education's vision for improving educational results for children with disabilities through amendments to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The enclosed prospectus describes our new directions for the IDEA that are reflected in the Administration's legislative proposal, which was introduced in Congress this summer (H.R. 1986; S. 1075). Congressional action on the IDEA is expected this fall.

This is the twentieth anniversary of the IDEA, which has opened up educational opportunity for millions of children with disabilities. The IDEA has also provided support to families, schools, communities, and States in their efforts to improve education for students with disabilities through activities such as teacher training, development of technology, and promoting proven, effective practices. Because of the IDEA, results for students with disabilities have improved dramatically. Students with disabilities now complete high school, attend college, and become competitively employed at much higher rates than previously reported.

The legislative proposals described in the enclosed prospectus were developed after extensive discussions with parents, teachers, and others concerned with the education of children with disabilities. The prospectus explains the rationale for each proposal, provides relevant research references that substantiate the policy objectives, and supplies a centerfold guide to families on how these amendments affect children with disabilities and their families.

You are free to distribute copies of this document to your colleagues and friends. For further information, please contact Anne Barrett at (202) 205-9674.

Sincerely,

Judith E. Heumann

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