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The court ruled that students with intellectual disabilities have the right to a free public education. -
Required Washington, D.C. schools to provide a free and appropriate education to all children with disabilities regardless of the price -
The first federal civil rights law protecting students with disabilities from discrimination in schools receiving federal funding. -
This law guaranteed free appropriate public education (FAPE), Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and placement in the least restrictive environment (LRE). -
Expanded services to preschool children, around ages 3–5, and created early intervention programs for infants and toddlers with disabilities. -
Renamed P.L. 94-142, added autism and traumatic brain injury as categories, and required transition services for life after high school. -
Strengthened the role of parents, emphasized access to the general education curriculum, and required students with disabilities to participate in statewide testing. -
Aligned with No Child Left Behind, promoted research-based instruction, early intervention, and progress monitoring. -
Provided over $12 billion in extra funding for IDEA programs to support services for students with disabilities. -
Replaced NCLB while maintaining key protections for students with disabilities, ensuring accountability and access to quality education.