What was guaranteed by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) guarantees that all children with disabilities have the right to a free, appropriate public education (FAPE). This federal law ensures that students with disabilities receive tailored educational services that meet their unique needs. The intent of IDEA is to provide equitable access to education and to prepare these students for future independence and success. This encompasses not only access to the curriculum but also the provision of necessary related services, supports, and accommodations to ensure that students can fully participate in educational opportunities alongside their peers. This focus on a tailored educational experience is central to the protections mandated by IDEA.