What are the 6 principles of IDEA?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is based on six key principles:

1. Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) ensures that all students with disabilities receive necessary educational services without charge.
2. Appropriate Evaluation requires schools to conduct thorough assessments to determine a child's eligibility for special education.
3. Individualized Education Program (IEP) mandates the development of a tailored educational plan for each eligible child.
4. Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) emphasizes that students with disabilities should be educated alongside their non-disabled peers to the greatest extent possible.
5. Parent and Student Participation involves parents and, when appropriate, students in the decision-making process regarding educational services.
6. Procedural Safeguards protect the rights of students and their families throughout the special education process.