Which legislative act mandates that all children have access to a free and appropriate public education?

• A. Rehabilitation Act of 1973
• B. Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
• C. Americans with Disabilities Act
• D. Architectural Barrier Act of 1968

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is ensuring a free and appropriate public education for students with disabilities. This requirement is provided by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. IDEA guarantees that eligible children receive special education services and related supports tailored to their needs at no cost to families, based on an individualized education program (IEP) developed with input from the family. It also emphasizes evaluating students to determine eligibility and placing them in the least restrictive environment, meaning they should learn alongside non-disabled peers whenever appropriate.

Other laws protect rights and access but don’t specifically mandate FAPE in public schools: the Rehabilitation Act addresses nondiscrimination and accommodations for programs receiving federal funds; the Americans with Disabilities Act broadens civil rights protections beyond education; the Architectural Barriers Act focuses on accessibility of federal buildings. Thus, IDEA is the one that mandates FAPE in public education.