FTCE Exceptional Student Education (ESE) K-12 Practice Test

What does P.L. 94-142 primarily require from states regarding children with disabilities?

1. Full inclusion in general education classrooms

2. Provision of free educational opportunities

3. Development of state-wide education standards

4. Tracking of special education performance metrics

The correct answer is: Provision of free educational opportunities

The primary requirement of P.L. 94-142, also known as the Education for All Handicapped Children Act, is the provision of free educational opportunities to all children with disabilities. This landmark legislation mandates that states must ensure that children with disabilities receive a "free appropriate public education” (FAPE) that is tailored to their individual needs. This means that public schools are required to provide special education and related services at no cost to the families, ensuring that these children have equal access to education in a manner that meets their unique learning requirements. While full inclusion in general education classrooms has gained traction as an educational practice, P.L. 94-142 does not specifically mandate it, as the focus is more on providing appropriate services and education based on each child's needs, which can sometimes occur in a separate setting. The development of state-wide education standards and tracking of special education performance metrics are not explicitly required by P.L. 94-142, even though states may engage in these activities to enhance educational outcomes for students with disabilities. The core focus of the legislation remains on ensuring that educational opportunities are provided at no cost to parents.