Which federal law guarantees free appropriate public education for students with disabilities?

• A. IDEA
• B. ADA
• C. FERPA
• D. ESEA

Answer: (A)

FAPE is guaranteed by IDEA, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. This law ensures that students with disabilities receive a Free Appropriate Public Education tailored to their needs. It requires schools to provide special education and related services at public expense, under public supervision, and in conformity with a written Individualized Education Program (IEP). The IEP spells out the student’s present levels of performance, annual goals, specific services and supports, accommodations, and how progress will be measured, all designed to help the student access the curriculum in the least restrictive environment, alongside nondisabled peers whenever appropriate.

Other laws play important roles in education and disability rights, but they don’t specifically guarantee FAPE. The ADA prohibits discrimination and ensures access in many areas, including schools, but it doesn’t mandate an IEP or FAPE. FERPA protects the privacy of students’ education records. ESEA (and its successor ESSA) focuses on general education standards, accountability, and funding rather than guaranteeing specialized education services through an IEP.