Special Ed History

  • Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA)

    Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA)
    signed into law by Lyndon B. Johnson, a civil law providing federal grants and funding for educational purposes (textbooks, materials, scholarships, etc.) to ensure all students (particularly low-income) receive a quality elementary & secondary education. Reauthorized in 2001 as the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) and 2015 as the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).
  • Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act

    Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
    Section 504 was signed into law ensuring disabled individuals are allowed to participate in and benefit from any program/activity receiving Federal financial assistance. This includes equal access to education, which may require accommodations or modifications. It does not, however, include an IEP.
  • Education for All Handicapped Children Act (now known as IDEA)

    Education for All Handicapped Children Act (now known as IDEA)
    signed into law by President Gerald Ford, allowing children with disabilities the same right to a free and appropriate public school education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE)
  • Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund (DREDF)

    Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund (DREDF)
    A civil rights law and policy organization founded by individuals with disabilities and parents of disabled children.
  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

    Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
    signed into law by President George H. W. Bush, ensuring equal opportunity for people with disabilities
  • No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB)

    No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB)
    signed by President George W. Bush as a reauthorization of ESEA, to close the achievement gap with fair and inclusive education for all students & increase federal support, ensuring accountability and flexibility
  • Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

    Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
    originally passed in 1975 as Education for All Handicapped Children Act, IDEA has been amended many times & was reauthorized in 2004 by Congress. It makes public education available for students with disabilities & upon assessment, guarantees special education & services provided for those with needs. Part C ensures early intervention services from ages birth until two, while Part B covers age three until twenty-one. IDEA includes both due process and an Individualized Education Program (IEP)
  • ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA)

    ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA)
    signed by George W. Bush, took effect January 1, 2009, broadening the definition of "disability" and applying it without extensive analysis. The change makes it easier for individuals to establish their disability, thus receiving protection under the ADA.
  • Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)

    Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)
    statute signed into law by President Barack Obama, amending IDEA; its previous version known as No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB). Focuses on fully preparing all students for college and career with high academic standards, maintaining accountability and action for positive change, and communication of assessment measures.