Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Special Education Practice Exam 2025 - Free Special Education Practice Questions and Study Guide

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the legislation that specifically guarantees students with disabilities the right to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE). This foundational law was enacted to ensure that all children with disabilities have access to educational opportunities that meet their unique needs. Under IDEA, eligible students are entitled to an Individualized Education Program (IEP) that outlines their specific educational goals and the support services they will receive.

This law emphasizes the importance of providing a specialized education that is tailored to each student's requirements, ensuring not only equal access but also meaningful educational benefits. The IDEA also mandates that education occurs in the least restrictive environment (LRE), promoting inclusion alongside their non-disabled peers whenever appropriate.

While other laws, such as the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act, protect individuals against discrimination and provide certain rights, they do not specifically address the provision of a free and appropriate public education in the systematic manner that IDEA does. The Every Student Succeeds Act, while focusing on standards and accountability in education, does not specifically guarantee FAPE for students with disabilities. Therefore, IDEA stands as the definitive legislation ensuring that students with disabilities receive the educational support they need to thrive.