What does IDEA stand for and when was it enacted?

The correct answer refers to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, which is a significant piece of legislation in the United States aimed at ensuring that children with disabilities have the opportunity to receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment. This law was enacted in 1990, although it has undergone several amendments and reauthorizations since then.

Understanding the historical context of IDEA is important as it arose from the civil rights movement advocating for the rights of individuals with disabilities. The act guarantees special education and related services to eligible children, emphasizing the importance of inclusion and access to educational opportunities. This has had a profound impact on educational practices and policies.

Other options presented contain either incorrect definitions of the acronym or inaccurate enactment dates, making them unsuitable. For instance, the other versions of IDEA suggested do not reflect the actual federal legislation or pertain to the educational rights of individuals with disabilities as intended by the 1990 enactment.