Which law ensures free appropriate public education for students with disabilities?

• A. IDEA Act
• B. ADA
• C. FERPA
• D. HIPAA

Answer: (A)

The key idea is identifying the law that guarantees a free and appropriate public education for students with disabilities. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act is designed for this purpose. It requires public schools to evaluate students, determine eligibility, and develop an individualized education program that lays out the specific instruction and services needed. It also mandates placement in the least restrictive environment and active involvement from parents and educators, with all services provided at no cost to families. The other laws address related but different concerns: the Americans with Disabilities Act focuses on civil rights and accessibility in broader settings, not the K–12 IEP process; FERPA protects the privacy of student education records; HIPAA governs health information privacy. So the act that directly ensures FAPE and guides the IEP process in public schools is this act.