The IDEA guarantees that children with disabilities are educated in the least restrictive environment which means they should be educated with:

The principle of least restrictive environment (LRE) under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) emphasizes that children with disabilities should be educated alongside their non-disabled peers to the greatest extent that is appropriate for them. This approach promotes inclusivity and supports the social and academic development of children with disabilities.

Educating children in the least restrictive environment encourages interaction, collaboration, and a sense of belonging among all students. It aims to provide opportunities for children with disabilities to learn in a setting where they can receive necessary support while still participating actively in the general education curriculum.

While some situations may require children with disabilities to receive specialized instruction away from their peers, the intent of the LRE provision is to ensure that such placements occur only when absolutely necessary. The focus is always on maximizing the integration of students with disabilities into regular educational settings.

This understanding contrasts sharply with other options presented. For instance, educating only alongside peers with disabilities would isolate these students, limiting their exposure to diverse interactions and learning experiences. Similarly, confining education to separate classrooms or exclusively using online resources would not align with the collaborative and inclusive spirit that IDEA promotes.