Which act is the primary law protecting the rights of children with disabilities?

• A. Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
• B. Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act
• C. Child Abuse Prevention and Treatment Act
• D. No Child Left Behind Act

Answer: (A)

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act is the primary law protecting the rights of children with disabilities. It guarantees a Free Appropriate Public Education for eligible students and requires schools to create an individualized plan—an IEP—that specifies the specialized supports and services the student needs. It also ensures placement in the Least Restrictive Environment, so the student can learn alongside peers as much as possible, and it provides procedural safeguards that involve families in decisions and protect students’ and parents’ rights. These elements together ensure that students with disabilities receive the education and supports they are entitled to.

For context, the other laws address different issues: privacy of education records is protected by FERPA, protections against abuse and neglect by CAPTA, and No Child Left Behind focused on overall academic standards and accountability rather than the specific rights to special education services.