November 29, 2000

MEMORANDUM TO DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION EMPLOYEES

Subject: IDEA 25th Anniversary -- Lessons for Us All

I am pleased to announce the celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which begins today. Additional information on this important milestone will be provided over the coming weeks.

The 25th anniversary of IDEA is the time to acknowledge the accomplishments of this landmark civil rights legislation, which guarantees children with disabilities a free and appropriate public education. IDEA has helped to reform the education system into one that now promotes educational, social and economic independence for children with disabilities.

We have many people to thank for the positive impact this law has had on millions of children with disabilities, including many Department employees who work on a daily basis to ensure that implementation of IDEA is a reality throughout the country.

In recognition of this anniversary, we must continue to build on the experience and research developed during the past 25 years in order to give all students with disabilities the opportunity to attain economic self-sufficiency, independence, and integration into society. We also must continue to develop and disseminate information to support and implement effective practices to meet the higher expectations IDEA has created.

In the future, we hope to build on the achievements of the last 25 years. Our goal is to see the spirit of IDEA fully realized. With your help, we will reach that goal.

Richard W. Riley