What is the primary federal law that specifies eligibility for special education services?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the primary federal law that specifically governs the provision of special education services to students with disabilities. It mandates that schools provide a free appropriate public education (FAPE) tailored to the individual needs of eligible students. IDEA outlines the eligibility criteria for receiving special education services and emphasizes the importance of individualized education programs (IEPs) to ensure that students with disabilities receive the necessary support to succeed in the educational environment.

IDEA also sets forth the rights and protections for students with disabilities and their families, ensuring that education systems adhere to specific guidelines when identifying and serving students in need of special education. This law has been crucial in establishing the framework for how states and schools must approach special education, making it the primary legislation focused on the educational needs of disabled individuals.