A.A. vMontgomery County Public Schools, et al.

Greenbelt, Maryland, civil rights lawyer represented the Plaintiff who sued on a Individuals With Disabilities Education Act theory.



The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal law guaranteeing eligible children with disabilities a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment, ensuring access to necessary special education services from birth through age 21. Key provisions include the creation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), mandates for state and local compliance, funding for states, and provisions for early intervention and national support programs. The law was first enacted in 1975 and significantly revised in 2004.

What IDEA Does



Provides FAPE: Mandates that schools provide special education and related services at no cost to parents to meet the unique needs of a child with a disability.



Ensures Least Restrictive Environment: Students with disabilities must be educated with non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate.

Establishes IEPs: Requires the creation of an Individualized Education Program (IEP), a legal document outlining the special education services and supports a child will receive.

Offers Early Intervention Services: Provides services for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families through its Part C.

Funds State Programs: Authorizes formula grants to states to help them deliver these special education services.



Key Components



Part B (Ages 3-21): This section of IDEA provides funding and legal requirements for students in public schools to receive special education services.



Part C (Ages 0-2): Focuses on early intervention services for infants and toddlers with disabilities and their families.

Part D (National Activities): Funds competitive grants for programs that support personnel development, technical assistance, research, and parent services.



Why IDEA is Important



Ensures Rights: Gives legal rights and protections to children with disabilities and their parents.



Promotes Equality: Aims to provide children with disabilities the same educational opportunities as their non-disabled peers.



Guides Schools: Sets federal guidelines and procedures for states and public agencies to follow when providing special education services.

09/12/2025 37 MEMORANDUM OPINION. Signed by Judge Adam B Abelson on 9/12/2025. (dass, Deputy Clerk) (Entered: 09/12/2025)

09/12/2025 38 ORDER denying Planitff's 24 Motion for Summary Judgment; granting Defendant's 32 Motion for Summary Judgment; closing case. Signed by Judge Adam B Abelson on 9/12/2025. (dass, Deputy Clerk) (Entered: 09/12/2025)