What does IDEA regulate concerning children with disabilities?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a key piece of legislation aimed at ensuring that children with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment. This principle emphasizes the importance of inclusion, meaning that children with disabilities should be educated alongside their nondisabled peers whenever possible. The goal is to provide children with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in the educational experience, gaining both academic knowledge and social skills by interacting with their peers.

IDEA mandates that schools provide appropriate services and accommodations to support children with disabilities in a general education setting, reinforcing the belief that all students can thrive when given the right support. Thus, the correct answer highlights the core tenet of IDEA, which is to foster inclusion rather than segregation, isolation, or restricted learning environments.