Is IDEA considered a protection law or a funding statute?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is primarily recognized as a protection law. It is designed to ensure that children with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE) that is tailored to their individual needs. This law provides rights and protections to both students and their families, ensuring access to educational services and accommodations necessary for effective learning.

In addition to serving as a legal framework that protects the rights of students with disabilities, IDEA also outlines guidelines for schools to follow, including eligibility criteria for special education services and the process for developing individualized education programs (IEPs). The emphasis on these rights emphasizes the protective nature of the law, highlighting its role in safeguarding access to education rather than merely providing funds for programs.

While IDEA does allocate federal funding to support these educational services, its primary function remains its role in establishing protections and rights for children with disabilities in the realm of education. Therefore, the designation of IDEA as a protection law is accurate, as it focuses on the legal rights of students and the responsibilities of educational institutions.