Advancing Educational Equity for Children with Hearing Loss: Celebrating the 50th Anniversary of the Individuals with Disability Education Act (IDEA).

Abstract

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act has been pivotal in securing necessary accommodations, specialized instruction, and assistive technologies, thereby promoting educational equity. Despite these advances, children with hearing differences continue to face significant barriers in early identification, intervention, and inclusion, necessitating the continuous advocacy and involvement of interdisciplinary professionals in educational and healthcare settings. Nurses are instrumental in bridging healthcare and education, facilitating early detection of hearing differences through newborn screenings and routine school assessments. They have a role in coordinating medical and educational services and advocating for individualized accommodations that enhance learning experiences. However, inconsistent screening policies and lack of awareness among parents, educators, and pediatricians about early indicators of hearing differences persist represent barriers to timely intervention. This article also explores the broader social determinants affecting access to resources and interventions for children with hearing differences, such as socioeconomic disparities and insurance coverage. It advocates for stronger policies and resources to address these inequities and calls for an expanded role of nurses in promoting comprehensive educational access. As IDEA continues to evolve, there is an ongoing need for innovative approaches, including the integration of advanced technologies and interdisciplinary collaboration, to ensure that all children with hearing differences can achieve their full academic potential and quality of life.