Are students with dyslexia eligible to be served under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)?

Are students with dyslexia eligible to be served under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)?

• A. False
• B. True
• C. Not sure
• D. Only under Section 504

Answer: (B)

Yes—dyslexia is recognized as a specific learning disability, and IDEA provides special education and related services to eligible students whose disability adversely affects learning and requires specialized instruction. When a student with dyslexia meets those criteria, an IEP is developed to give a Free Appropriate Public Education tailored to their needs. Some students with dyslexia who do not qualify for IDEA can still receive supports under Section 504, but that doesn’t exclude eligibility under IDEA for those who meet the criteria.

Yes—dyslexia is recognized as a specific learning disability, and IDEA provides special education and related services to eligible students whose disability adversely affects learning and requires specialized instruction. When a student with dyslexia meets those criteria, an IEP is developed to give a Free Appropriate Public Education tailored to their needs. Some students with dyslexia who do not qualify for IDEA can still receive supports under Section 504, but that doesn’t exclude eligibility under IDEA for those who meet the criteria.