IDEIA

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004, which reauthorized and amended the original IDEA legislation. IDEIA strengthened requirements for highly qualified special education teachers, expanded early intervention services, and updated provisions for assistive technology. The law defines AT as "any item, piece of equipment, or product system that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of a child with a disability." IDEIA mandates that schools consider AT needs for every student with an IEP and provide AT devices and services when necessary for a free appropriate public education (FAPE).