What establishes the legal framework against educational discrimination?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) plays a critical role in establishing the legal framework to protect the educational rights of students with disabilities, ensuring they receive free appropriate public education (FAPE) tailored to their individual needs. While it is primarily focused on students with disabilities, it sets standards and mandates for how schools must accommodate and provide for these students, thereby addressing discrimination based on disability within the educational setting.

The Civil Rights Act, while significant, is more comprehensive and covers broader issues of discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin but does not specifically target the educational requirements of individuals with disabilities. Title IX specifically addresses gender discrimination in education, prohibiting sex-based discrimination in federally funded education programs. Free Appropriate Public Education is a principle established by IDEA, ensuring that students with disabilities receive necessary services and support, but it is IDEA that encapsulates the broader legal framework against educational discrimination for these students.