Which law focuses on the rights of students with disabilities to receive a free appropriate public education?

The law that focuses on the rights of students with disabilities to receive a free appropriate public education is known as PL 94-142, which is formally called the Education for All Handicapped Children Act. Enacted in 1975, this pivotal legislation established the principle that all children, regardless of their disabilities, are entitled to a public education tailored to their individual needs. It set the foundation for ensuring that students with disabilities have access to free educational resources and appropriate services, thereby promoting their ability to learn alongside their peers in public schools.

This law laid the groundwork for subsequent legislation, including the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which further expanded upon the rights and protections for students with disabilities. By emphasizing the importance of an Individualized Education Program (IEP), PL 94-142 ensures that educational institutions must provide necessary services and accommodations, thus firmly establishing the right to an equitable education for all students with disabilities.