Which law mandates that students with disabilities receive appropriate educational services?

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the law that specifically mandates that students with disabilities receive appropriate educational services. This federal law ensures that all children with disabilities have access to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) tailored to their individual needs. It requires schools to develop an Individualized Education Program (IEP) for each eligible student, outlining the specialized instructional services and supports they require to thrive in an educational setting.

IDEA emphasizes not only access to education but also the equality and inclusion of students with disabilities in mainstream classrooms where appropriate. This approach helps to foster a more inclusive education system that respects the rights and needs of all students, promoting their academic and social development.

The other laws mentioned serve different purposes. For instance, the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) focuses on K-12 education accountability and improving educational outcomes for all students but does not specifically address the educational services for students with disabilities. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination based on disability and ensures access to public services, including schools, but doesn't specifically mandate educational services. The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) pertains to wage and labor laws, having no relation to the provision of educational services.