Ensuring FAPE for Students on the Autism Spectrum: Highlights of 2025 Case Law

The provision of a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) is required for all individuals receiving special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Given the continuous legal developments on parental rights and the provision of FAPE to qualified students with disabilities, there is a need to review recent developments, particularly about the growing population of students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Herein, we discuss illustrative recent case law findings from 2025 and implications for educators and parents of students with ASD. Based on these findings, we offer implications for practice and resources for educators and families.