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Brown vs. the Board of Education 1965
The first piece of legislation that ruled in favor of students whom received inapt educational services. This was the largest educational reform to date, it paved the way for additional legislation years to come. -
Vocational Rehabilitation Act (VRA) (Public Law 93-112, Section 504) 1973
This provides a professional definition for terms such as “Handicapped Person” and “Appropriate Education” no longer leaving room for interpretation and mistreatment of students with disabilities in any federal program. -
Educational Amendments Act 1974
By granting students and parents rights within the Special Education process, it is important they be treated equally without discrimination. Having students and families involved is now key in any student’s educational experience. -
Education for all Handicapped Children Act (EAHCA) (Public Law 94-142 Part B) 1975
This legislation made it law that the state provides a free and apt education for all individuals with disabilities ages 5-18. As this introduced IEPs and defined “Least Restrictive Environment” improving the educational experience for students as a whole. -
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) (Public Law 101-336) 1990
By banning discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all sectors, this created an even level playing field for all children in the school setting. This also established non-discriminatory work, public service, accommodation, transportation and telecommunication settings. -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) (Public Law 101-476) 1990
Drastically expanded what services are provided under Special Education services bettering the future of all students with disabilities. By providing transition programs students are more likely to succeed outside of the school setting. -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (Public Law 105-17) 1997
As general educators are involved in the IEP process, students will have a well rounded IEP plan and aim spend most of their time in a mainstream classroom. By also including a behavior management plan, students will also benefit more from their IEPs. -
No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) 2001
By holding schools, districts and the state accountable these programs performance levels rise, in turn so will student success rates. Also gives families an option of where their child should receive their quality education if their current institution is failing. -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (Public Law 108-446) 2004
By funding early intervention services, students are less likely to need SPED services later, and introduces RtI into the specific learning disability determination process. By using the response to Intervention system, we can assess a students academic understanding from a young age when test results may be unreliable.
