Which law ensures students with disabilities have access to free and appropriate public education?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the law that specifically ensures students with disabilities have access to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE). It outlines the rights of children with disabilities and mandates that schools provide the necessary accommodations and services to support their educational needs. This act focuses on creating individualized education programs (IEPs) tailored to each student's unique requirements, ensuring they receive the same educational opportunities as their peers.

In comparison, other laws like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) generally address broader issues of accessibility and discrimination in various public domains, but not specifically in educational settings. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act also supports rights relating to discrimination, but it is more focused on providing accommodations in programs receiving federal funding rather than the comprehensive educational framework established by IDEA. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) deals primarily with the privacy of student records rather than ensuring access to education for students with disabilities. Thus, IDEA is the most appropriate and relevant law concerning access to education for students with disabilities.