What is the purpose of the Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)?

The purpose of the Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is centered around ensuring that children with disabilities have access to a free appropriate public education that meets their individual needs. This law mandates that schools develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) tailored to each student's unique requirements, allowing them to make progress in the general education curriculum. IDEA emphasizes the importance of inclusivity and ensuring that children with disabilities are educated alongside their peers to the greatest extent possible.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the goals of IDEA. Funding private education for special needs students is not a primary objective of IDEA, as it focuses on public education systems. Limiting educational resources contradicts the core intention of the act, which is to enhance support for students with disabilities. Additionally, there are no mandates for specific teaching methods outlined in IDEA; rather, it encourages schools to use diverse techniques based on what is most effective for each individual student. Thus, the correct understanding of IDEA aligns closely with ensuring appropriate education tailored to students with special needs.