The SELPA Administrators of California are proud to launch a yearlong series of monthly resources to honor the 50th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).  Since its passage in 1975, IDEA has transformed the educational landscape by ensuring that children with disabilities receive a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE), grounded in the principles of equity, access, and inclusion.

Each month we will highlight an important focus and disability, providing carefully curated resources and suggested activities, as well as links to California’s Statewide System of Support.  We hope that these monthly resources will help Special Education Local Plan Areas (SELPAs), Local Educational Agencies (LEAs), and community agencies engage with their communities, reflect on progress, and reaffirm their commitment to inclusive education.

The focus for August 2025 is “The Foundations of the IDEA and a Look Back”. In this month’s resource, historic milestones and pioneers of special education are featured as well as a forward look at the themes for the year.