Under IDEA, what must be ensured for students with disabilities?

The requirement under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) emphasizes that students with disabilities must have access to a free appropriate public education (FAPE). This law mandates that public schools provide tailored educational services that meet students' individual needs, ensuring they receive the same educational opportunities as their peers.

FAPE encompasses not only the provision of specialized services but also the educational programs necessary to support students in achieving academic success and preparing for further education, employment, and independent living. This framework is designed to promote inclusion and equal access within the educational environment, directly addressing the educational rights of students with disabilities.

While employment opportunities, participation in international programs, and independent living services are valuable components of a well-rounded support system for individuals with disabilities, they are not specifically mandated under IDEA in the same way that access to a free appropriate public education is.