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The U.S. Supreme Court announced racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional which established a foundation for future legislation on educational equality which includes special education. While this case is not directly centered on disability rights, it created the idea that all students deserve the same access to education. [https://www.history.com/topics/black-history/brown-v-board-of-education-of-topeka] -
The Elementary and Secondary Education Act supplied federal funding to schools helping low-income communities and established a foundation for future policies that expanded educational support to students with disabilities. This act sought to ensure that all students, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, had fair access to quality education opportunities. It established a foundation for subsequent legislation that specifically focused on students with disabilities. -
This law ensured that all children with disabilities had access to a free, appropriate public education and required schools to create individualized education plans for them. This was the first time the federal government mandated public schools to provide education for students with disabilities. The law stressed the significance of inclusion by ensuring that students with disabilities have the same learning opportunities as other students. -
This law allowed parents of children with disabilities the right to advocate for their child's education and take legal steps if their needs are not met. This act allowed parents to challenge school decisions through a formal process. It is important for building stronger relationship between schools and families and supporting children with disabilities. -
This act replaced the Education for All Handicapped children Act and expanded services, including transition planning. The law stressed preparing students with disabilities for life after high school. It required schools to develop transition plans to support students in moving from school to work or higher education. [https://youtu.be/3XMndYNEGFA] -
This law prohibits disability discrimination and makes sure there is equal access to public facilities which included schools. This was a landmark law that expanded protections to transportation, employment, and public spaces. It required schools to offer appropriate support for students with disabilities. -
This created the first standards for special education professionals to support quality education for children with disabilities. The standards laid the foundation for special education practice. The standards highlighted inclusive practices and individualized instruction. -
Rosa's Law changed the term "mental retardation" to "intellectual disability" in federal laws to encourage more respectful language. This switch highlighted the increasing awareness of the significance of using person-first language. This law aimed to show greater respect and reduce stigma for people with intellectual disabilities. -
This act took place of the No Child Left Behind and focused on providing the same opportunities for all students which included those with disabilities. The law aimed on reducing achievement gaps and ensuring schools serving underserved populations received the appropriate resources. It also required schools to account for the progress of students with disabilities in their performance and accountability measures. -
This bill supported inclusive education by increasing funding for schools to implement inclusive classrooms. It recognized the value of students with disabilities learning alongside with their peers. It supported teacher training in inclusive practices.