What principle in IDEA allows parents to contest decisions made by educational institutions?

The principle of procedural due process under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) plays a crucial role in allowing parents to contest decisions made by educational institutions regarding their child's education. Procedural due process ensures that parents have a right to be involved in the decision-making process and provides a framework for resolving disputes. This principle includes various rights, such as the right to receive prior written notice of decisions, the right to access educational records, and the right to dispute any decisions through formal procedures, such as mediation or due process hearings.

This provision supports parental engagement and helps ensure that the educational needs of children with disabilities are adequately addressed. By affording parents these rights, procedural due process fosters a collaborative relationship between families and educational institutions, promoting an equitable educational setting.

The other options pertain to different aspects of IDEA. Parent and student participation emphasizes the role of families in the planning and implementation of special education programs, while the full inclusion model refers to the practice of including students with disabilities in general education settings. Related services encompass additional support services necessary for a child to benefit from special education. While each of these principles is integral to IDEA, procedural due process specifically addresses the parents' right to contest decisions, making it the correct answer.