What is required to be provided by schools for students with intensive disabilities?

The provision of public education for students with intensive disabilities is mandated by legislation such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This law ensures that all eligible students, regardless of the severity of their disabilities, have access to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) tailored to meet their unique needs. Schools are required to create Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) that outline specific educational goals, accommodations, and services necessary for these students to thrive in an educational setting.

Public education encompasses a range of options and supports, including specialized instruction, access to assistive technologies, and related services such as speech therapy or occupational therapy. It aims to ensure that students with intensive disabilities have equitable opportunities to participate in education alongside their peers. Programs are designed to foster inclusion, promote learning, and enhance overall development, ultimately preparing these students for meaningful engagement in their communities.