Which federal law mandates the provision of special education services to students with disabilities?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the federal law specifically established to ensure that students with disabilities receive appropriate special education services. This law mandates that public schools create an Individualized Education Program (IEP) tailored to each child's unique needs, ensuring access to a free and appropriate public education.

IDEA outlines the obligations of educational institutions to identify, evaluate, and provide services to students with disabilities, focusing on inclusive practices that support their academic achievement and social integration. It also emphasizes parental involvement in the educational process which supports collaborative efforts between families and schools.

The other laws listed have important roles in protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities as well, but they do not specifically mandate the provision of educational services in the same way. For example, the Rehabilitation Act focuses on broader civil rights for individuals with disabilities in various contexts, while the Americans with Disabilities Act ensures accessibility in public spaces and employment. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, on the other hand, deals with the privacy of student education records rather than the provision of special education services.