Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Special Education Practice Exam 2026 - Free Special Education Practice Questions and Study Guide

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) plays a crucial role in supporting special education by ensuring federal funding for schools that provide services to students with disabilities. This federal funding is designed to help schools meet the educational needs of these students, enabling them to access a free and appropriate public education (FAPE). This financial support is essential because it helps schools implement necessary programs, hire qualified staff, and provide specialized resources and services, which are fundamental for the effective education of students with disabilities.

While states have some autonomy in determining educational standards, this flexibility does not encompass the critical funding required to support the unique needs of students with disabilities. The Act does not limit its focus to physical disabilities; instead, it encompasses a broad range of learning and developmental disabilities. Although IDEA does involve certain administrative requirements, the primary intention is not to create more paperwork but to ensure compliance and effective service delivery for students with disabilities.