Introduction
This post is a part of our ongoing blog series exploring significant Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) cases. Today, we’ll look into Cerra v. Pawling Central School District (2005). This case provides essential insights into how the Second Circuit interprets the requirements under the IDEA, particularly concerning the adequacy of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). If you’re new to this series, consider reading our original post which links to posts about the foundational IDEA decisions, like Rowley and Endrew F., which set important legal standards.
Cerra v. Pawling Central School District (2005) – The Background
The Cerra case arose when the parents of a child with a disability disputed the adequacy of their child’s IEP. Under IDEA, public schools must provide children with disabilities a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). The parents argued that the school’s IEP failed to address their child’s unique educational needs and sought reimbursement for private school tuition.