IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)
Eligibility
Washington public school districts serving students with disabilities receive IDEA funds automatically. Funds support special education services, IEP implementation, and assistive technology for eligible students.
Program Goals
IDEA provides federal funding to ensure students with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education. Washington districts use IDEA funds to provide special education services, assistive technology, and specialized programming that supports IEP goals. Hands-on STEM tools that support diverse learning needs are allowable when tied to IEP goals.
Read the GrantApplication and Distribution
No competitive application required. OSPI distributes IDEA funds to Washington districts based on student count and federal formulas. Districts use funds in accordance with individual IEPs. Contact your district's special education director for guidance on allowable purchases.
Cycle Notes
Annual formula allocation. IDEA funds are distributed each school year. Special education coordinators manage spending in accordance with IEP requirements. Review OSPI's special education page for Washington-specific guidance.
Grant Award Amount
IDEA allocations vary by district based on student enrollment with disabilities. Contact your district's special education office for your current allocation and spending priorities.
Allowable Purchases
Forward Education Products for This Grant
These kits align to the learning outcomes this program funds.
- Coding for Good Kit - Adaptable coding and robotics kit that supports diverse learners. Can be used to support IEP goals related to technology, problem-solving, and hands-on learning.
- CHARGE Battery Pack for micro:bit - Portable, accessible power solution that allows students with mobility needs to engage with coding activities anywhere in the classroom.
- Forward Education Learning Platform - Online platform with accessible lesson formats that can support students with learning differences in STEM programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can IDEA funds pay for STEM kits?
IDEA funds can pay for materials that are part of a student's IEP or support special education services. STEM kits tied to specific IEP goals for technology or hands-on learning can be allowable. Consult your district's special education director.
Does every Washington school receive IDEA funds?
Every Washington district receives IDEA funds. Distribution to individual schools depends on where students with disabilities are served.
What is an IEP?
An Individualized Education Program. Federal law requires one for every student receiving special education services. IDEA funds must be used in ways that support IEP goals.
Can IDEA pay for assistive technology?
Yes. Assistive technology is a recognized special education support under IDEA. Adaptive learning tools and accessible technology are allowable when documented in a student's IEP.
Who manages IDEA spending at the school level?
Your school's special education coordinator or IEP team manages IDEA spending. Work with them to include specific tools in IEP plans and school improvement goals.
Need Help Writing Your Grant Application?
Forward Education works with schools and districts to build strong funding proposals. We can help you connect our tools to your grant requirements.
- Curriculum alignment documents - Washington standards mapped to our kits
- Program quotes and pricing - classroom sets, bundles, and multi-site pricing
- Letters of support - documentation for grant applications
- Project ideas and scope-and-sequence - ready-to-use program outlines
Download the Forward Education Grant Guide
Our grant guide helps educators find the right funding sources and build strong applications for STEM and coding programs.
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