Which federal law requires schools to ensure all students receive equal access to education?

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 is the federal law that specifically prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in any educational program or activity receiving federal financial assistance. While Title IX is often associated with gender equality in sports and other educational opportunities, its broader mandate ensures that all students, regardless of gender, have equal access to educational resources and programs.

The significance of Title IX lies in its comprehensive protection against gender discrimination, thereby fostering an environment where all students can participate fully in educational activities without fear of bias or exclusion. This aim aligns closely with the overarching goal of ensuring equitable access to education for every student.

While other laws such as the No Child Left Behind Act, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, and the Every Student Succeeds Act focus on various aspects of educational access and outcomes—particularly for specific populations or in the context of academic performance—Title IX explicitly addresses the fundamental right of all students to receive an equal education irrespective of their sex.