Which law established the right to a free and appropriate public education for children with disabilities?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the law that established the right to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) for children with disabilities. This legislation, originally enacted in 1975 and reauthorized several times since, mandates that public schools provide special education and related services to eligible children with disabilities. It ensures that these children have access to educational opportunities that meet their individual needs, enabling them to receive an education in the least restrictive environment possible.

IDEA is crucial in outlining the responsibilities of schools regarding the assessment, development of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and the provision of necessary services. Its enforcement plays a significant role in promoting inclusivity and equitable access to education for students with disabilities, which is essential in fostering their academic and social development.

The other laws mentioned serve different purposes: the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects individuals from discrimination based on disability in several areas, including employment and public accommodations; the Rehabilitation Act focuses on vocational rehabilitation and the elimination of barriers to employment; and the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) ensures the privacy of student education records. While all these laws contribute to the rights of individuals with disabilities, only IDEA specifically addresses educational rights.