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Brown vs. Board of Education
In this landmark case, the Supreme Court ruled that school segregation by race was not constitutional, even if resources were allotted equally. This opened the door for legislation that would advocate for individuals with disabilities. The end of segregation was the beginning act of breaking down barriers for individuals in minorities and providing education for all students. -
Vocational Rehabilitation Act (VRA) (Public Law 93-112, Section 504)
The enactment of the Vocational Rehabilitation Act in 1973 prohibited discrimination against students with disabilities in federally funded programs. It also defined handicapped person and appropriate education. A clear definition of these terms provided a framework for elimination of discriminatory action in public education, as well as in employment and housing, providing previously unavailable jobs and homes for people with disabilities. -
Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EAHCA) (Public Law 94-142, Part B)
The requirement of Individual Education Plans (IEPs) was provided by this legislation. States were required to provide a free and appropriate education for children with disabilities (ages 5 to 18). This law first defined least restrictive environment and is known as the Mainstreaming Law. -
Education of the Handicapped Act Amendments (Public Law 99-457)
Early intervention programs for infants and toddlers with disabilities (ages birth to age 2) were established with these amendments to EAHCA. States were required to provide extension of free and appropriate public education for children with disabilities to children from age 3 to 5-years-old. as well. This was the start for critical early intervention services, providing support for children in crucial stages of development. -
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) (Public Law 101-336)
https://www.ada.gov
The ADA prohibited discrimination against people with disabilities in the private sector and provided equal opportunities for employment and public services, accommodations, transportation and telecommunications. Public bathrooms with handicapped access and buildings with wheelchair ramps were prompted by this law. This law also provided for people with AIDS to be defined as disabled. -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) (Public Law 105-17)
IDEA allowed states to extend the use of the developmental delay category for students through age 9, allowing schools more time to appropriately identify and evaluate disabilities. It also required all students with disabilities to receive services, even if they had been expelled from school, and required a proactive behavior management plan to be included in IEP's of students with behavior problems. General education teachers are required to be part of the IEP team as a result of this Act. -
No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB)
The biggest effect of this Act on Special Education was the increased accountability for schools to make adequate yearly progress. This legislation is unique in the distinction that all students should be included and make adequate yearly progress in high-stakes assessments, regardless of disability, socioeconomic status, language background, and race and ethnicity. The belief is that most students with disabilities will perform to these increased high expectations. -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA) (Public Law 108-446)
Many crucial provisions were included in this Act. They include, but aren't limited to, Zero reject/free, appropriate education, child find, nondiscriminatory evaluation, IEP's, least restrictive environment, due process, confidentiality, and advocacy. Non-compliance consequences were mandated by this. Parent participation and shared decision making must be included in all aspects of identification and evaluation of students with disabilities.
