The Arc promotes and protects the human rights of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and actively supports their full inclusion and participation in the community throughout their lifetimes.
Since its founding, The Arc has advocated for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) to have access to educational supports and services. The Arc was a driving force in the passage of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in 1975, which required schools for the first time to educate all students with disabilities. Now, through The Arc@School, The Arc provides training, and resources to help families and other stakeholders navigate the special education system.
Advocacy Curriculum
The Arc@School’s online advocacy curriculum provides the basic information that parents, educators, and other advocates need to support students and families in navigating the special education system, including understanding IDEA and early intervention services, IEPs, Section 504, and more.