Dearborn Academy

𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐧 𝐇𝐨𝐧𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝟓𝟎 𝐘𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐈𝐃𝐄𝐀

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) — a law that forever changed education by ensuring that every child, regardless of disability, has access to a free and appropriate public education.

At Dearborn Academy, that principle is more than policy, it’s the heart of who we are. Every day, we see IDEA in action as our students find belonging, confidence, and success through individualized programs that meet them where they are.

We’re honored that 𝑴𝑨𝑨𝑷𝑺 𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒆𝒄𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝑫𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒃𝒐𝒓𝒏’𝒔 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒚, 𝒘𝒓𝒊𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒏 𝒃𝒚 𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝑯𝒆𝒂𝒅 𝒐𝒇 𝑺𝒄𝒉𝒐𝒐𝒍, 𝑹𝒆𝒃𝒆𝒄𝒄𝒂 𝑨𝒍𝒕𝒆𝒑𝒆𝒕𝒆𝒓, to be featured on the MAAPS website in celebration of IDEA’s lasting impact. From the student who reads fluently for the first time to the graduate thriving back in their home district, these stories remind us: equity in education isn’t achieved by compliance, but through compassion, commitment, and collaboration.

Here’s to 50 years of progress and to continuing the work of ensuring that every child is seen, heard, taught, and celebrated.

https://maaps.org/2025/10/50-years-of-idea-the-work-is-not-done-but-we-are-here-for-it/