What law mandates special education services for students with disabilities?

• A. The Rehabilitation Act
• B. The Americans with Disabilities Act
• C. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
• D. The Every Student Succeeds Act

Answer: (C)

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the law that specifically mandates special education services for students with disabilities. This federal law is designed to ensure that children with disabilities have access to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) that meets their unique needs. Under IDEA, eligible students are entitled to receive services tailored to their individual requirements, which may include specialized instruction, support, and accommodations.

IDEA emphasizes the importance of developing an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for each student, ensuring that educational goals are personalized and that the necessary resources are allocated to support the student's educational development. This legislation holds schools accountable for providing appropriate services and ensuring that students with disabilities are included in the general education environment to the maximum extent possible, promoting integration and access to the same educational opportunities as their peers without disabilities.

The other options refer to important laws that also protect the rights of individuals with disabilities, but they address broader issues of discrimination and accessibility rather than specifically mandating educational services.