← Back to Glossary
AUTISM GLOSSARY
FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education)
DEFINITION
FAPE is a right guaranteed under IDEA to all students with disabilities in the US. Schools must provide an education that is free, designed to meet the student's unique needs, and reasonably calculated to enable educational progress.
WHY IT MATTERS
FAPE is the legal foundation of special education. When schools fail to provide it, parents have legal recourse including due process. Understanding FAPE gives families the language to advocate effectively.
COMMON MISCONCEPTION
FAPE does not mean the best possible education — courts have established it as 'more than de minimis' progress. Advocates continue to push for higher standards. It also does not mean educating a student in a certain setting — placement is a separate question (LRE).