What is the age range that the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) covers for special education services?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) provides special education services for eligible students from birth through age 21. This statute ensures that children with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE) tailored to their individual needs. Specifically, while early intervention services can begin at birth, IDEA ensures that special education services are available to students up to the age of 21, which allows for a transition period into adulthood.

The inclusion of services from ages 3 to 21 is particularly significant because it aligns with the age when many children first enter the public school system, making it crucial for those with disabilities to have support throughout their educational journey. Thus, the correct age range is accurately represented as covering from birth through age 21, supporting a seamless transition into early adulthood.