The Evolution of Special Education Laws

Brown v. Board of Education

1954

This law motivated students with disabilities to also fight for equal education.

Elementary and Secondary Act (ESEA) - PLL 89-10

1965

This law provided funded for low income students as well as students with disabilities

Hobson v. Hansen

1967

Created laws to protect students from biased assessments

Diana v. Board of Education

1970

This law allows that students that are bilingual to choose which language they take the test in. It also provides that the student's culture and present level performances are taken into account.

Section 504 of the Rhabilitation Act

1973

This law allows for funding to provided to students that do not qualify for special education.

The Education Amendments- PL 93-280

1974

This included the Education of the Handicapped Act which was the first act to bring about free and appropriate education.

Family Education Rights and Privacy Act

1974

This law allow for families to have full access to a students school records.

Education for All Handicapped Children Act - PL 94-142

1975

This laws says that all schools must provide education to all students. This provided guidelines for free appropriate education, least restrictive environment, formal assessments, and the inclusion of parents in the IEP process.

Amendment to Education of the Handicapped Act - PL-99-457

1982

This law requires that early intervention for the 0-3 years of age, as well as preschool services for students 3-5 years of age.

Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA)

1990

This law changed the wording of laws to first person language. It also provided laws so that students with disabilities receive vocational training.