FTCE Exceptional Student Education (ESE) K-12 Practice Test

Which of the following is considered the basic source of law for special education?

1. Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

2. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act

3. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

4. The No Child Left Behind Act

The correct answer is: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is indeed recognized as the foundational legislation governing special education in the United States. It establishes the right to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) for children with disabilities and outlines specific provisions to ensure that they receive tailored educational support in accordance with their individual needs. IDEA mandates that schools create Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students identified as having a disability, ensuring that they receive the necessary services and supports to succeed academically. The other acts, while significant in promoting the rights of individuals with disabilities, serve different purposes or contexts. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in programs receiving federal assistance, making it important but not solely focused on education. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is broader in scope, addressing disability rights across various areas of public life, including employment and public accommodations. The No Child Left Behind Act was primarily aimed at increasing accountability and education standards, thus not specifically addressing the legal framework for special education services. Overall, IDEA is central to the structure and delivery of special education services, solidifying its status as the primary legal source for these rights and services.