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Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)

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Summary

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Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) means that kids with disabilities have the right to a free education that meets their unique needs. It’s provided by public schools at no cost to families.

Frequently Asked Question

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Who is eligible for Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)?

All children with disabilities who are enrolled in public schools in the United States are eligible for FAPE, regardless of the severity or type of their disability.

How is Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) provided

FAPE is provided through the creation of an Individualized Education Program (IEP), which outlines the specific services, support, and accommodations a child with a disability needs to succeed in school. Schools must provide these services and make necessary changes to ensure that their programs and facilities are accessible to children with disabilities.

What happens if a school is not providing Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)?

If a school is not providing FAPE, parents or guardians have the right to file a complaint and request a due process hearing to resolve the issue. If the issue is not resolved through the hearing process, the family may also have the option to file a lawsuit in order to ensure that their child is receiving the education they are entitled to under the law.

Scientific Definition

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Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) is a legal requirement under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that mandates public schools to provide special education and related services to eligible children with disabilities. FAPE ensures that all students with disabilities receive an individualized education program (IEP) designed to meet their unique learning needs, at no cost to parents.

 

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Video Explanation

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Real World Example of Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)

Meet Susie, a bright and determined child with a learning disability. Thanks to Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE), Susie thrives in her inclusive classroom, receiving the support she needs to excel.

  • Individualized Education Plan (IEP): Susie’s school creates a personalized IEP that tailors her education to suit her specific needs.
  • Related Services: She benefits from speech therapy sessions twice a week, enhancing her communication skills.
  • Supportive Environment: Susie’s teachers make necessary accessibility modifications, ensuring she can navigate the classroom with ease.
  • Inclusive Learning: In her class, Susie learns alongside her non-disabled peers, fostering a sense of belonging and understanding.
  • Parental Collaboration: Susie’s parents actively participate in her educational journey, working closely with teachers to monitor her progress.

Thanks to FAPE and the dedicated efforts of her teachers and parents, Susie embraces her unique abilities, grows her skills, and confidently embraces her educational journey.

How Does Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) Work?

FAPE ensures that children with disabilities have access to appropriate educational services. Here are some key elements:

  • Identification: Schools must identify and evaluate children who may have disabilities.
  • Individualized Education Program (IEP): Each eligible child receives an IEP tailored to their specific needs.
  • Related Services: Children may receive services like speech therapy or occupational therapy as part of their IEP.
  • Least Restrictive Environment: Children should be educated alongside peers without disabilities to the maximum extent appropriate.
Key Element Description
Identification Schools must identify and evaluate children who may have disabilities.
Individualized Education Program (IEP) Each eligible child receives an IEP tailored to their specific needs.
Related Services Children may receive services like speech therapy or occupational therapy as part of their IEP.
Least Restrictive Environment Children should be educated alongside peers without disabilities to the maximum extent appropriate.

By understanding and advocating for FAPE, parents can ensure their child receives the support they need to succeed in school.

 

This post was originally published on Feb. 1, 2023. It was updated on May 24, 2024.