IDEA mandates that education for children with disabilities should be based on what?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) emphasizes that education for children with disabilities must be tailored to meet their unique needs. This is achieved through the development of an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), which is a document that outlines specific educational goals, the services and support required, and the accommodations necessary for the student to succeed academically. The IEP process involves collaboration among educators, parents, and specialists to ensure that the student receives personalized instruction and access to resources that align with their individual learning requirements. This approach recognizes that children with disabilities may have diverse learning profiles and abilities, thereby promoting inclusivity and equal opportunities in education.

In contrast, standardized testing and a one-size-fits-all curriculum do not account for the unique needs of each child, and vocational training programs, while valuable for some, do not represent the comprehensive educational framework mandated by IDEA for all children with disabilities. Thus, an IEP is central to ensuring that these students receive a quality education that is appropriate and effective for them.