Handout: FAPE, LRE, and Natural Environments: What Birth – Grade 12 Leaders Need to Know

This handout provides education leaders with a clear overview of three foundational principles of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA): Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE), Least Restrictive Environment (LRE), and Natural Environments. It explains what the law requires, why these concepts matter for children from birth through grade 12, and the role of leaders in ensuring inclusive, supportive learning settings. The resource also highlights actionable guidance and links to additional tools for strengthening leadership practices and fostering environments where all children can learn and thrive.