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 students with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education (FAPE). This legislation mandates that schools provide tailored educational services to meet the individual needs of students with disabilities, thus promoting their right to access the same educational opportunities as their peers without disabilities. The intent is to create an inclusive environment where students can thrive academically and socially, based on their unique learning requirements.

While promoting academic excellence and increasing funding for special education programs are important considerations, they are not the central focus of IDEA. Additionally, standardizing curriculum across all schools is not part of IDEA’s objectives; rather, IDEA emphasizes the need for individualized education plans (IEPs) that specifically address each student's educational needs. Therefore, the correct option directly aligns with the core tenet of ensuring equitable access to education for students with disabilities.