What is required by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act for students with disabilities?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) mandates that students with disabilities are entitled to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). This requirement ensures that all students with disabilities receive an education that is tailored to their individual needs, allowing them access to the same educational opportunities as their non-disabled peers. FAPE encompasses special education and related services that are provided at public expense, under the supervision of the local education agency and in accordance with an Individualized Education Program (IEP). This legal framework is foundational in promoting educational access and support for students with disabilities, ensuring their right to a quality education is upheld.

In contrast, while equal employment opportunities, housing assistance, and vocational training can be important aspects of support for individuals with disabilities in different contexts, they are not directly specified as requirements under IDEA. IDEA specifically focuses on the educational rights and supports needed for students with disabilities, making the provision of FAPE a central component of the legislation.