historical timelime - special education

right to appropriate education programs

Jan 7, 1976

Frederich L. v. Thomas (Philadelphia). Class action suit that endorsed the right of all students with learning disabilities to have access to suitable education programs (https://law.justia.com/cases/federal/district-courts/FSupp/408/832/1873563).

intelligence tests changed

Oct 6, 1979

Larry P. v. Riles (California). California barred intelligence exams that resulted in African American students testing-out as mildly retarded. Unusually high numbers of African American students were placed in classes designed for intellectually challenged students (https://www.leagle.com/decision/19791421495fsupp92611265).

unbiased assessments

Mar 17, 1980

Issac Lora et al. v. The Board of Education of New York et al. Unbiased assessment procedures must be used when placing minority schoolchildren who have emotional difficulties in special education courses (https://law.justia.com/cases/federal/appellate-courts/F2/623/248/260857/).