Which federal law ensures a free appropriate public education and related services for students with disabilities?

• A. ADA
• B. OSHA
• C. IDEA
• D. Title I

Answer: (C)

The main concept here is identifying the federal law that guarantees a Free Appropriate Public Education and related services for students with disabilities. The law that does this is IDEA—the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. IDEA requires schools to provide a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment, at public expense, and under public supervision. It also mandates an individualized education program (IEP) for every eligible student, outlining goals, specific services, and how progress will be measured, with active participation from parents and safeguard provisions.

ADA, while crucial for preventing discrimination and ensuring access in many settings, does not specifically mandate the provision of FAPE or define the IEP process within public schools. OSHA focuses on workplace safety, not education. Title I targets funding and resources to help improve outcomes for students in high-poverty schools, not disability-specific education services.

So IDEA is the best answer because it directly establishes the framework for special education, related services, IEPs, and the guarantee of FAPE in public education.