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Brown vs. Board of Education
In this court case, the United States Supreme Court ruled that it was NOT constitutional for schools to segregate against students because of their race. According to Vaughn, Bos, and Schumm (2013), this was the first time the federal government and advocated for students who experienced inequality and prejudice at school (pg. 4). -
The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA)
This act was one of the first laws that gave gave public schools funds for education. One feature of the ESEA was to provide schools with a free and reduced lunch system to provide children in need with meals at school. Vaughn, Bos, and Schumm (2013) states that a critical component of ESEA for individuals with disabilities was the grant program which encouraged states to improve programs for students with disabilities (pg. 4). -
Mills vs. Board of Education of the District of Columbia
According to Vaughn, Bos, and Schomm ( 2013), This court case required schools to describe the curricula,k objectives, teacher qualifications, and supplemental services that were needed for students with special needs (pg.4). This influential court case then helped pave the way for the drafting of P.L. 94-142. -
Vocational Rehabilitation Act
This act, according to Vaughn, Bos, and Schumm (2013), states what the definition of a handicapped person is, defines the term appropriate education and prohibits discrimination against students with disabilities in federally funded programs (pg. 6). The VRA according to Vaughn, Bos, and Schumm (2013), prevents any private organization that uses federal funds from discrimination (pg. 9). This act along with others has significantly improved the opportunities for individuals with disabilities. -
The Education for All Handicapped Children Act
According to Vaughn, Bos and Schumm (2013), after the passage of P.L. 94-142, schools were required to ensure that all children, regardless of their disability, received a free and appropriate public education (pg. 5). This required schools to identify the special needs of students and then provide those students with special education. -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
IDEA has played a major part in legislation for individuals with disabilities. According to Vaughn, Bos, and Schumm (2013), IDEA established "people first" language when referring to people with disabilities and extended special education services to include social work, assistive technology and rehabilitation services (pg. 6). This law advocates for all students with disabilities, even those without a guardian. -
No Child Left Behind Act
This act requires school districts to set high standards and measurable goals for students to improve their education. This theory will hold students and teachers accountable. According to Vaughn, Bos and Schumm (2013), the three No Child Left Behind Act components are increased accountability, school choice options and greater flexibility for states, school districts and schools. -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA)
IDEIA 2004 is the amended version of the IDEA 1997. According to Vaughn, Bos, and Schumm (2013), some of the guidelines of IDEIA are zero reject/free, appropriate education, identification of students with disabilities, ages (birth-2yrs) and (ages 31-21) included, nondiscriminatory evaluation, IEP's must be implemented, due process, confidentiality of records, advocacy for students without guardians, noncompliance and parent participation.
