Final answer:
The principle of IDEA that supports educating students with disabilities to the maximum extent appropriate is known as the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) mandate, which is designed to mainstream students and provide individualized support through IEPs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The principle of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) that states a student with disabilities should be educated to the maximum extent appropriate is known as the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) mandate. This principle ensures that children with disabilities are mainstreamed with all students and receive individual educational plans (IEPs) tailored to provide them with the maximum support necessary for their learning potential. It was enacted to affirm that all students, including those with disabilities, have the right to an education and must be included in public schools when possible. Intensive debates and ongoing research continue to improve the methods of inclusion and mainstreaming to ensure that every student with disabilities can access a free and appropriate public education.