Definitions for "Free Appropriate Public Education"
A program of education and related services for a child with a disability that is designed to meet the child's special education needs and which allows the child to make meaningful progress in the educational setting. It is provided without charge to parents.
The Individuals with Disabilities Act Amendments of 1997 states that a free appropriate public education must be made available to all children with disabilities residing in the state between the ages of 3 and 21, inclusive, including children with disabilities who have been suspended or expelled from school.
Local education agencies and area education agencies shall provide special education and related services at public expense, under public supervision and direction, and at no cost to the parents.