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

The primary purpose of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is to ensure that children with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE) that meets their unique needs. This federal law mandates that public schools create an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for each eligible child, tailored to provide special education services and support.

IDEA emphasizes the importance of providing access to education in the least restrictive environment, enabling students with disabilities to learn alongside their non-disabled peers whenever possible. The act aims to promote equal educational opportunities and support the development of academic and functional skills, ultimately fostering the independence and integration of students with disabilities into society.

The other options, although related to education, do not encapsulate the core mission of IDEA. Funding public schools pertains more to financial resources rather than addressing the educational needs of students with disabilities. Assessing student performance is a broader educational goal that does not specifically focus on special education services. Creating standardized tests relates to assessment practices but does not align with the individualized support that IDEA guarantees for students with disabilities.