Under IDEA, what is a key feature emphasized regarding special education students?

The key feature emphasized under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the inclusion of special education students in district testing. This reflects the fundamental principle of providing students with disabilities the same opportunities and access to academic standards as their peers without disabilities. Inclusion in district testing is essential because it allows for the assessment of educational progress and ensures accountability for educational outcomes.

This approach promotes equity in educational practices by integrating students with disabilities into the general education environment whenever possible, supporting their participation in standardized assessments alongside their peers. This emphasis aligns with the broader goal of IDEA to ensure that students with disabilities receive a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment.