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Brown vs Board of Education
First significant court case to desegregate schools. This decision led to a growing understanding that all people, regardless of their race, gender, or disability, have a right to public education. (www.naesp.org/sites/default/files/resources/1/Principal/2008/N-Oweb2.pdf) -
Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (aka 504)
This law authorizes programs for Vocational Rehabilitation, such as supported employment, independent living, and client assistance. this act also includes a variety of provisions focused on rights, advocacy, and protections for individuals with disabilities. (www.nad.org/resources/civil-rights-laws/rehabilitation-act-of-1973/) -
Education for All Handicapped Children Act (PL 94-142)
This act required all public schools accepting federal funds to provide equal access to education and one free meal a day for children with physical and mental disabilities. (en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Education_for_All_Handicapped_Children_Act) -
Americans with Disabilities Act
Nation's first comprehensive civil rights law addressing the needs of people with disabilities, prohibiting discrimination in employment, public services, public accommodations, and telecommunications. (www.eeoc.gov/eeoc/history/35th/1990s/ada.html) -
No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB)
Authorizes several federal education programs that are administered by the states. Under the 2002 law, states are required to test students in reading and math in grades 3–8 and once in high school. (http://www.k12.wa.us/esea/NCLB.aspx) -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
A law that makes available a free appropriate public education to eligible children with disabilities throughout the nation and ensures special education and related services to those children. (sites.ed.gov/idea/about-idea/)
