1975 IDEA Although IDEA or Individuals with Disabilities Education Act was first passed in 1975 giving students with disabilities the right to services and education tailored to their unique circumstances, IDEA did not include transition services for students. 2004 IDEA Transition plans were first introduced in Individuals with Disabilities Education Act enacted in 2004. The inclusion of transition plans in the 2004 version of IDEA was done to increase positive student outcomes in post-special education graduates' quality of life. This addition, helped students with disabilities have access to community resources and gain greater independence. This version of IDEA required that transition planning be updated every year following their 16th birthday. Some states require transition planning earlier. This mandate specifically requires state and local education agencies to: 1. Provide transition services for every child with a disability. 2. Develop a “coordinated set of activities” for students with disabilities. These activities must be focused on achieving individualized postschool employment or vocational training and community living goals for each student. 3. Coordinate transition activities with community service agencies to make needed services more readily available to graduates. 4. Consider individual needs, strengths, preferences, and interests. Americans with Disabilities Act The Americans with Disabilities Act focuses on accommodations, and protections for individuals with disabilities in all employment, public services, transportation, and telecommunications. A Nation at Risk The publication A Nation at Risk is a report about how American Schools are failing to educate students in many areas.