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Brown Vs. Board of education
Plaintiffs: Argued that racial segregation in public schools violated the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment.
Defendants: Claimed that "separate but equal" facilities were constitutional.
Court Ruling:Ruled that racial segregation in public schools is unconstitutional, declaring that "separate educational facilities are inherently unequal."
Impact on Special Education:Set a precedent for the idea that all children are entitled to equal educational opportunities. -
PARC v. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Plaintiffs (PARC): Argued children with intellectual disabilities were being denied access to public education.
Defendants (Pennsylvania): Claimed that children could not benefit from public education and could be excluded.
Court Ruling:Ruled that Pennsylvania must provide a free public education to all children with intellectual disabilities.
Impact on Special Education: Established the right for children with disabilities, laying the groundwork for future legislation such as IDEA. -
Mills v. Board of Education of the District of Columbia
Plaintiffs: Claimed the exclusion of children with disabilities from public schools violated their rights to due process and equal protection.
Defendants: Argued budget constraints justified the exclusion of these children.
Court Ruling:Financial limitations could not justify the exclusion of children with disabilities from public schools.
Impact on Special Education: Public schools must serve all children, regardless of disability, influencing the development of IDEA. -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
IDEA ensures that children with disabilities have the right to a free and appropriate public education tailored to their individual needs. Impact on Special Education: IDEA mandates individualized education programs (IEPs) and ensures that students with disabilities receive special education and related services. -
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
The ADA is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including schools. Impact on Special Education: ADA ensures that students with disabilities have equal access to education and accommodations, supporting their participation in mainstream activities.