FTCE Exceptional Student Education (ESE) K-12 Practice Test

According to the 2004 IDEA Reauthorization, what is FAPE?

1. Free Access to Public Education

2. Free Appropriate Public Education

3. Federal Aid for Public Education

4. Federal Assistance for Private Education

The correct answer is: Free Appropriate Public Education

FAPE stands for Free Appropriate Public Education, which is a fundamental principle established by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to ensure that students with disabilities receive educational services that are tailored to their individual needs at no cost to their families. This provision guarantees that all children with disabilities have access to a free education that meets certain standards of appropriateness, meaning that the education should be designed to confer educational benefit to the child. This includes the requirement that services, supports, and necessary modifications be provided to enable students to progress in the general education curriculum. The focus is on providing an education that is not only free but also suitable and individualized based on the unique needs of the student, ensuring they can participate fully in their educational experience. The other options do not accurately reflect the definition and scope of FAPE as established by IDEA. They either misrepresent the educational framework that IDEA seeks to establish or refer to concepts that are not aligned with the rights and services defined under the law.