What is IDEA

Every child who has a disability is entitled to an education that is free, public, and appropriate. This process was born from the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). IDEA mandates all school districts identify students with a specific learning disability and provide a free educational program. This mandate's official name is called FAPE free and appropriate public education (Karanxha & Zierkel 2014). The objective of the free appropriate public education act (FAPE) is to guarantee that the rights of students who are identified as having a disability receive free education, notwithstanding their disability. Students' education should follow their individualized education plan (IEP), and they must learn in the least restrictive environment possible. The federal government supports free appropriate public education, which means that not following the provisions of FAPE can result in legal actions. Everyone is successful when the guidelines of FAPE are followed, and equitable learning and services are provided to all students regardless of disability (What is Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) 2017)