Project Activities
Research question
- How much is spent to educate students with disabilities? How does that compare to spending on their peers?
- To what extent do spending amounts reflect students' needs versus where they live or go to school?
- What does special education spending pay for, and what role does IDEA play?
- To what extent is the federal contribution to special education funding meeting its target?
Structured Abstract
Design
The current, foundational phase of the study supports refinement of the study methods and sampling design, development and piloting of study instruments, incorporation of stakeholder feedback, and recruitment of the study sample. The study sample may include up to 1,250 school districts and 15,000 students with and without disabilities, based on current estimates that will be updated when the study design is finalized. A pilot version of the study will be conducted in school year 2024–2025. The full study data collection is anticipated for the 2026–2027 school year.
Key findings
Key findings will be available after the study report is published.
People and institutions involved
IES program contact(s)
Products and publications
The first report for the study is expected in 2028 and will be announced on http://ies.ed.gov/ncee/.
Questions about this project?
To answer additional questions about this project or provide feedback, please contact the program officer.
