What is emphasized by P.L. 105-17, the IDEA 1997?

The emphasis of P.L. 105-17, also known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) of 1997, is primarily on the inclusion of students with disabilities in high-stakes testing situations. This legislation aimed to ensure that students with disabilities are provided access to the general education curriculum while also participating in state and district-wide assessments, which are critical for accountability in education.

IDEA 1997 sought to enhance educational equity and improve outcomes for students with disabilities by mandating appropriate accommodations and modifications to facilitate their success in these assessments. The legislation underscored the importance of involving these students in the same academic standards as their peers, reflecting a shift toward greater accountability and inclusion within the educational system.

While the other options related to special education—such as funding, transition services, and parent rights—are indeed important aspects of the IDEA framework, the specific emphasis in the context of P.L. 105-17 is placed on the inclusion of students in high-stakes testing to foster a more equitable educational environment.