Which legal act ensures that students with disabilities are entitled to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)?

• A. Americans with Disabilities Act
• B. Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
• C. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
• D. Every Student Succeeds Act

Answer: (B)

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the legal act that specifically guarantees students with disabilities access to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). This act lays out the framework for ensuring that eligible children with disabilities receive services tailored to their individual needs, allowing them to make progress in the general education curriculum alongside their peers. IDEA emphasizes providing necessary support and accommodations, which can include special education services and related services, ensuring that students have the opportunity to achieve their educational goals.

Unlike other choices, IDEA explicitly mandates that special education services be provided at no cost to the family, highlighting the importance of access to appropriate educational resources for students with disabilities. This act also requires schools to develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students, which outline specific educational goals and the services needed to achieve them, further reinforcing the commitment to FAPE.