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Brown vs Board of Education
-The first significant to influence special education. It was in fact a case about segregation.
-This began the movement towards equality in education for everyone. -
The Elementary & Secondary Education Act
-Even after the Brown case, schools still had the "right" to allow students with disabilities in. Many didn't, until this Act was passed.
-This act says that the Government would give money to school to improve education. -
Amendment made to Elementary & Secondary Education Act
-A year after the Elementary & Secondary Education Act was put in place, it was amended to include all students with disabilities as well. -
Section 504 of Rehabilitation Act
-States that no student can be denied from any program or activity being funded by federal money.
-This meant in both public & private schools. -
The Education for All Handicapped Children Act
-Also known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
-Put in place because children with disabilities were still being mistreated & poorly educated.
-Considered a major phase for Special Education. -
Board of Education of Hendrick Hudson Central School District vs Rowley
-The first Special Education case to land in the Supreme Court.
-This meant that students that qualified for special education services must have access to them that meet each of their unique educational needs.
-Later it also added the IEP (Individual Education Plan). That gave parents an idea of what to expect for their childs education. -
The Americans with Disabilities Act
- This Act says that all school districts and education institutions are required to allow students with disabilities into their schools & classrooms even if they do not receive federal money.
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Additional Amendments to IDEA
-These changes were made to shift the focus of the access given to special education students. -From just "providing access" to providing meaningful programs for the students that would provide them a better education. -
No Child Left Behind Act
-Added to improve the quality of education for students wit disabilities even at the State level.
-Also increased accountability at the State level for student achievement. -
TODAY
-Today schools continue to work diligently to provide the best possible education for children with disabilities. Some schools fall short. While some exceed expectation.
-We need to work harder to have teachers who are qualified for this field & that can fill the growing number of Special Education teachers that our country needs.