Both the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 ensure Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) for students with disabilities. This includes assistive technology (AT) like screen readers, braille notetakers, video magnifiers, and noise-cancelling headphones. If your child needs AT, it's their right to have it provided under both laws.
If AT is listed as crucial in your child's Individualized Education Program (IEP), it's legally guaranteed by IDEA, even in settings outside school. Advocate for your child's rights under both IDEA and Section 504 if they need AT not included in their IEP.
National Programs
IDEA Discretionary Grants
OSEP fuels progress for students with disabilities by awarding competitive discretionary grants through IDEA's Part B and Part D. These grants, often targeting non-profits and universities but sometimes open to for-profit entities, fund crucial research, demonstrations, technology advancements, and personnel development programs.
Link: https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/osep/programs.html#discretionary-grant
IDEA Formula Grants
OSEP dispatches funds through three IDEA-linked formulas to states: Part B for early intervention, Part C for preschoolers, and Part B for K-12 special education. This annual support empowers states to empower families and educate children with disabilities.
Link: https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/osers/osep/programs.html#formula-grant
Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services (OSERS)
The US Department of Educations OSERS program offers a variety of grants for assistive technology, professional development, and services.
Link: https://www2.ed.gov/fund/grant/apply/osep/new-osep-grants.html
State Programs
Georgia
Title 1, Part A - LEA Funding
The Georgia Department of Education's Title I team supports local schools under a federal program targeting students from low-income families. They provide technical assistance, resources, and monitoring to ensure every child has equitable access to a high-quality education and overcome achievement gaps. Think of them as champions for disadvantaged students, empowering schools to close the opportunity divide.
