The Road to Educational Equality

Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) (Public Law 89-10)

Apr 9, 1965

First law to pass that advocated for students needing additional supports.

Vocational Rehabilitation Act (VRA) (Public Law 93-112, Sect. 504)

Sep 26, 1973

This law made it illegal for any federally funded organization to discriminate based on disability. Covered not only education, but also social and health services.

Educational Amendments Act (Public Law 93-380)

Aug 21, 1974

Made federal funding possible to states for exceptional learner programs including those for gifted and talented students.

Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EAHCA) (Public Law 94-142, Part B)

Nov 30, 1975

Commonly known as the "mainstreaming law" this required a free and appropriate education as well as an individualized education program to any student in need of such.

Education of the Handicapped Act Amendments (Public Law 99-457)

Jan 1, 1986

Made early intervention programs available for infants and toddlers w/ disabilities as well as required states to include the 3-5 yr. age group in EAHCA's requirements.

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) (Public Law 101-476)

Oct 30, 1990

Replaces 1975's EAHCA. This wide reaching law established the "people first" language used today, included new categories of disabilities eligible for services, and extended service requirements to include transitioning to adult programs.

IDEA (Public Law 105-17)

Jan 1, 1997

Furthered the responsibility of schools to ensure students w/ disabilities have access to the general education curriculum, and required students w/ disabilities to participate in state/district assessments.

No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB)

Jan 8, 2002

NCLB implemented school choice, flexibility w/ federal funds provided standards criteria is met, and increased accountability in all students across the board.

Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA) (Public Law 108-446)

Dec 3, 2004

Amendment to 1990's IDEA, this implemented use of RTI model in disability determination/qualification. Standards were raised for special education licensure, and IDEIA put policies in place to ensure fair racial and ethnic student representation.