May an LEA refuse IDEA Recovery funds?
An LEA may refuse to accept IDEA-Part B funds, including IDEA Recovery funds. An LEA considering refusing IDEA Recovery funds should review the Office of Special Education Programs ARRA guidance at http://www.ed.gov/policy/gen/leg/recovery/guidance/idea-b.doc. [A-4, pp. 8-9]. LEAs considering refusing funds should consider the potential uses of the funds and the impact of refusing the funds on the LEA and the community it serves. If an LEA decides to refuse IDEA Recovery funds, the district administrator must send a written refusal to the State Director of Special Education, Stephanie Petska. The DPI will review the LEA s decision. LEAs are reminded they must make available to parents of children with disabilities and to the general public all documents relating to the eligibility of the LEA for IDEA funds. [34 CFR ยง300.
