Semi-annual reviews of special education plans are mandated by which law?

The correct choice is IDEA, which stands for the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. This federal law mandates that students with disabilities receive a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) tailored to their individual needs. A key component of IDEA is the requirement for schools to conduct regular reviews of a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP). These reviews are intended to evaluate the student's progress, update educational goals, and ensure that the services being provided are effectively supporting the student's educational development. Semi-annual reviews are specifically outlined to ensure accountability and that necessary adjustments can be made to support the student's growth.

In contrast, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) ensures broader civil rights protections for individuals with disabilities but does not specifically mandate reviews of individual educational plans. Section 504 provides protections against discrimination and ensures accommodations in educational settings, but it does not dictate the frequency of reviews for educational plans. The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) focuses on K-12 education policies but is not specifically related to the special education requirements outlined by IDEA.