Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE): Requirements for Charter Schools

Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) is a fundamental right under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), ensuring that students with disabilities have access to public education tailored to their needs. In Texas, charter schools, like all public schools, are required to uphold these standards. Here’s a brief overview of what FAPE entails for charter schools in Texas.

FAPE in Charter Schools: Charter schools are public schools of choice that are subject to the same federal and state laws regarding education for students with disabilities as traditional public schools. This means they must provide FAPE to all eligible students.

Key Requirements for Charter Schools: Individualized Education Programs (IEP): Charter schools must develop and implement an IEP for each student with a disability, designed to meet their unique educational needs.

• Appropriate Services: Services provided must be appropriate to the child’s educational needs, which may include special education and related services such as transportation, speech therapy, or physical therapy, as required.
  

• Least Restrictive Environment (LRE): Students with disabilities should be educated with their non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate, and special classes or separate schooling should only occur if the nature of the disability prevents satisfactory education in a regular classroom, even with the use of supplementary aids and services.
  

• Non-Discrimination: Charter schools must not discriminate on the basis of disability and must provide equal access to all school facilities and extracurricular activities.
  

• Evaluations and Assessments: Comprehensive and periodic evaluations must be conducted to assess the educational needs and progress of students with disabilities.
  

Texas charter schools have a responsibility to provide FAPE, ensuring that all students, regardless of disability, have access to education that meets their unique needs. Compliance with IDEA and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act is crucial in delivering these services effectively and equitably.

For detailed guidance on FAPE requirements go to .. https://tea.texas.gov/texas-schools/texas-schools-charter-schools/specialeducation.pdf