IDEA is described as which of the following?

• A. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
• B. No Child Left Behind Act
• C. Rehabilitation Act
• D. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Answer: (A)

IDEA is a federal law that governs how schools provide special education and related services to eligible students with disabilities. It guarantees a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment and requires an individualized education program that specifies the supports and services a student will receive, along with parental involvement, ongoing evaluation, and due process protections. This focus on specially designed instruction and the formal process for determining eligibility and placement sets IDEA apart from other laws. The No Child Left Behind Act centers on accountability and standardized testing for all students, the Rehabilitation Act (Section 504) prohibits disability discrimination and requires accommodations in programs receiving federal funds, and the Americans with Disabilities Act provides broad civil rights protections in employment, public services, and accommodations. So the description that identifies the statute specifically governing special education and its key mechanisms best matches IDEA.