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

What does the Education for All Handicapped Children Act (Public Law 94-142) primarily provide?

1. Free public education for all children

2. Access to resources for gifted students

3. Defined special education and related services

4. Parental rights in educational settings

The correct answer is: Defined special education and related services

The Education for All Handicapped Children Act, also known as Public Law 94-142, primarily focuses on defining special education and related services for children with disabilities. This landmark legislation established the right of children with disabilities to receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE). The act not only outlines the necessity for schools to provide tailored educational programs but also specifies the obligations of states and local educational agencies to ensure the provision of special education services. The significance of this act lies in its role in laying the foundation for the modern special education system, creating a framework that necessitates Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) that are specifically designed to meet the unique needs of each child with disabilities. This emphasis on defining services and supports aimed to ensure that all children could access education that is both appropriate and conducive to their individual learning requirements. Understanding this legislation is crucial for educators and administrators as it highlights the legal responsibilities they have toward students with disabilities, ensuring that educational opportunities are equitable and tailored to support diverse learning needs.