Special Education Law Timeline

By Matricia

  • Brown v. The Board of Education

    There were a total of 5 cases that came before the Brown v. Board of Education, the 5 prior cases eventually all became the Brown case. This case declared segregation in public schools is unconstitutional.

  • PARC v. Pennsylvania Board of Education

    This case stated that children diagnosed with a mental illness ages 6-21 are to be provided with a public education

  • Mills v. Board of Education

    This case started out similarly to the Brown v. Board of Education, in terms of denying students an education because they had a disability. This case set the foundation for IDEA along with EAHCA.

  • Rehabilitation Act of 1973

    This act prohibits any federally funded institution from discriminating against an individual who has a disability.

  • Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act

    In terms of special education Section 504 means to provide regular, special education, and related services to students that have a physical or mental impairments which limit major life activities. Services are designed to meet and individuals educational needs.

  • Education for All Handicap Children Act (EAHCA)

    EAHCA states that students with qualifying disabilities have the right to be evaluated in order to create an individualized education plan with the input of a parent to get as close to the same education as the students peers.

  • IDEA

    The first draft of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act took place in 1975, this law ensures a free and appropriate education to children who qualify for a learning disability.

  • IDEA Re-authorization 1990

    This re-authorization took place of EAHCA. Also each child will have an education plan that will be monitored.

  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

    The American with Disabilities Act (ADA) ensures people with disabilities will have the equal opportunity and public accommodations as everyone else.

  • IDEA Re-authorization 1997

    One of the significant changes that took place during this re-authorization was the introduction of the IEP for eligible children.

  • IDEA Re-authorization 2004

    The re-authorization of 2004 became a complex law with many provisions such as: having greater flexibility in ways of delivery to the child, improved results in education outcomes, and addressing the procedural rights of children with disabilities. The re-authorization improved education outcomes and student accountability.

  • Every Student Succeeds Act

    For the first time this requires schools to teach all students to a high standard that will prepare them for college and careers.