Pennsylvania is Awarded for Performance Under the National Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

HARRISBURG, Pa., July 18, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Today, Secretary of Education Pedro A. Rivera announced that Pennsylvania has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) for its tenth consecutive year in compliance and performance with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Part B.

"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. 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," said Secretary Rivera.

As one of seven of the biggest states in the country, Pennsylvania alone has been the only participator in compliance with USDE's standards for IDEA, Part B. In addition, this federal 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.

As on-going efforts continue to improve education standards for the nation's seven million children with disabilities, IDEA was amended in 2004 to expand state efforts and encourage accountability. IDEA now requires individual states to develop a performance plan and an annual performance report that evaluates the state's continuous efforts to implement IDEA.

Pennsylvania was evaluated by USDE from data collected and considered from the commonwealth's performance plan, annual performance report, student participation on statewide assessments, and participation data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress. The commonwealth has achieved satisfactory reports and is not required to be part of any federal assistance or improvement plan. 

"I look forward to continuing our efforts to improve scholastic results and support systems for students with disabilities," said Secretary Rivera. "I am proud that the commonwealth is being recognized for its efforts to provide equal opportunities to all students."

MEDIA CONTACT: Casey Smith, 717-783-9802                                     

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Education

Related Links

http://www.state.pa.us