What type of costs can IDEA Part B funds cover?

IDEA Part B funds are specifically allocated to support the education of students with disabilities. These funds are intended to cover excess costs incurred by school districts in providing special education and related services to eligible students. This includes expenses directly related to ensuring that these students receive an appropriate education in accordance with their Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).

The emphasis on covering excess costs means that IDEA Part B funds are designed to supplement existing resources, ensuring that the financial burden of meeting the specific educational needs of students with disabilities does not fall wholly on the school districts. This can include costs for special education teachers, specialized materials, therapies, and other services that are necessary for providing a quality education to these students.

In contrast, general operating expenses of the school, administrative costs unrelated to special education, and costs for extracurricular activities do not fall under the purview of IDEA Part B funding. These areas typically rely on other forms of funding and are not specifically aimed at supporting the educational needs of students with disabilities.