What does FAPE stand for in the context of Section 504?

FAPE stands for Free Appropriate Public Education. This term is integral to the provisions of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, which ensures that students with disabilities have access to education that is tailored to their individual needs. Under this framework, "free" implies that education is provided at no cost to the families of students, while "appropriate" refers to the education being suitable and customized to meet the unique requirements of each student with a disability. The "public education" component signifies that the education must be provided in public schools.

This definition emphasizes the obligation of educational institutions to offer services and accommodations that enable students with disabilities to participate meaningfully in the educational system, thus ensuring they have equal opportunities compared to their peers without disabilities. Understanding FAPE is crucial for professionals working in the field of education, especially those involved with special education and support services for students with disabilities.