Which federal law regulates special education services?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the federal law that specifically governs the provision of special education services to children with disabilities. This law was designed to ensure that all children, regardless of their disability, have access to a free and appropriate public education that meets their unique needs. Under IDEA, schools are required to develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for each eligible student, outlining specific educational goals and the services needed to achieve them. This law also emphasizes the importance of inclusion in the mainstream classroom, ensuring that students with disabilities receive the necessary support to thrive alongside their peers.

While the other federal laws mentioned do relate to individuals with disabilities, they do not specifically address the provision of special education services. The Rehabilitation Act focuses on protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities in various contexts, particularly employment and access to programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination based on disability in all areas of public life but does not specifically regulate educational programs. The No Child Left Behind Act aimed to improve educational standards and accountability in general education rather than focusing specifically on special education. Thus, IDEA is the correct answer as it is the primary legislation that governs special education services.