Legal Definitions - FAPE

FAPE stands for free appropriate public education. This means that public schools must provide education to students with physical or mental disabilities without charging extra fees. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) guarantees this right to students.

For example, if a student has a learning disability, the school must create an individualized education plan (IEP) to help them learn. This plan might include extra help from a teacher or special accommodations during tests. The school cannot charge the student or their family for these services.

Another example is if a student has a mental health condition, the school must provide access to a counselor or therapist. This service must also be free of charge to the student.

FAPE ensures that all students, regardless of their disabilities, have access to education and support services that will help them succeed in school.