Which federal law prohibits discrimination based on sex in federally funded education programs?

The federal law that prohibits discrimination based on sex in federally funded education programs is Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972. This landmark legislation was enacted to ensure that no individual is denied the benefits of, or subjected to discrimination in educational programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance on the basis of sex. Title IX aims to create equal opportunities in education for all students, promoting gender equity in schools and universities.

Title IX specifically addresses issues such as sexual harassment, athletic opportunities, and equal access to educational resources. Its broad reach helps protect students not only from overt discrimination but also from practices that can result in unequal treatment or disadvantage based on gender. As a result, it has played a crucial role in transforming educational institutions to foster an environment that supports both male and female students equally.

The other laws mentioned don't address discrimination based on sex in the educational context as Title IX does. For instance, IDEA focuses on the educational rights of students with disabilities, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities, and the Americans with Disabilities Act is focused on broad access and accommodation for individuals with disabilities in all public spaces, including education but not specifically on sex discrimination.