What is meant by 'Zero Reject' in IDEA principles?

The principle of 'Zero Reject' within the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) means that no student can be denied access to a public education, regardless of the severity of their disabilities. This foundational concept ensures that all children with disabilities are entitled to receive a free appropriate public education (FAPE). It asserts that schools cannot refuse to educate any child based on their disability status, thereby promoting inclusivity and equal educational opportunities for all students.

This principle plays a critical role in fostering an environment where all students are acknowledged and provided with the necessary resources and support to succeed in their educational journeys. By establishing a 'Zero Reject' policy, IDEA emphasizes the importance of accommodating and meeting diverse educational needs rather than excluding any child from the educational system.