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The Supreme Court ruled that racial segregation in schools was unconstitutional. This case set the foundation for equal educational opportunities, later influencing rights for students with disabilities. -
a federal court decided that children with intellectual disabilities could not be denied access to public education. this case established the right to education to all students regardless of disability -
The court ruled that students with disabilities could not be excluded from public schools because of funding issues. This decision reinforced the responsibility of schools to provide education to all. -
The first U.S. civil rights law protecting individuals with disabilities. It prohibited discrimination in programs receiving federal funding, including public schools. -
A landmark law requiring public schools to provide a “free appropriate public education” (FAPE) to students with disabilities. This act later became the foundation of IDEA. -
This law gave parents the right to recover attorney’s fees when they successfully challenged schools over special education services. It strengthened parental involvement in the special education process. -
A broad civil rights law prohibiting discrimination against people with disabilities in schools, workplaces, and public spaces. It ensured equal opportunities and accessibility beyond education. -
The EAHCA was renamed IDEA. It introduced people-first language and required schools to provide transition services to help students move from school to adulthood. -
These updates emphasized inclusion in general education classrooms. They also increased accountability and strengthened the role of parents in educational planning. -
This reauthorization aligned IDEA with No Child Left Behind. It focused on accountability, early intervention, and requiring highly qualified special education teachers.