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Brown v. Board of Education
This was a Supreme Court case that ruled that the segregation of children based on race in public schools was unconstitutional. This was a pivotal event in the civil rights movement. It laid the foundation for future laws that would be put in place ruling against segregation for children with special needs or disabilities. This case laid the framework for an understanding that segregation hinders equality for all, which is in the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America. -
Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA)
This is a federal law that provides funding for primary and secondary education. It was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson. The ESEA encourages states to use the Universal Design for Learning, an approach to learning that aims to meet the needs of all students. The ESEA has been reauthorized every five years since it was first enacted and has since undergone many revisions and amendments that take even greater measures to serve the purpose of inclusion in schools today. -
The Architectural Barriers Act
Passed by congress, this is the first federal law to address accessibility, making federal facilities accessible to people with physical disabilities. This is a major step in inclusion for those with disabilities. Again, this is a cornerstone in the history of events that have led us to where we stand today with inclusion for those with disabilities. -
The Rehabilitation Act
This act was signed by president Richard Nixon. It was the first major federal law in the US to protect the rights of people with disabilities. The law includes several sections. Those are section 504, section 508, and Vocational Rehabilitation. I am including a link to a video which provides further information on these particular sections, mainly section 504.
Section 504 -
Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EAHCA)
Passed by Congress, this act established Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and ensured that students with disabilities received a free and adequate public education (FAPE). Also known as public law 94-142. IEP stands for Individualized Education Program, allowing children to have a unique plan to fit their individual needs for education, mandated by law. Here is a link to an article which talks more about EAHCA and it's development over time.
EHA -
Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA)
Signed into law by president George H.W. Bush, this is a civil rights law that protects people with disabilities from discrimination in many areas of public life. It's purpose is to ensure that those with disabilities have the same opportunities as everyone else. The ADA prohibits discrimination in employment, state and local government services, and transportation. The ADA also includes rules for service animals. -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
EAHCA was renamed IDEA. This is a federal law that guarantees eligible children with disabilities a free and appropriate public education. It also ensures special education and related services are available to these children. -
No Child Left Behind Act
This was signed into law by president George W. Bush. The No Child Left Behind came into place when ESEA was reauthorized and renamed the NCLB Act. This is another initiative to ensure inclusivity for children with disabilities. This act aims to hold schools accountable for the academic progress of all students. -
IDEIA- Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act- (IDEA) was most recently amended in to IDEIA. This includes revisions and amendments made to the preexisting IDEA act. IDEA has four parts. IDEA also supports early intervention for infants and toddlers. -
United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
UNCRPD stands for The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. It is an international treaty that promotes and protects the human rights of people with disabilities. A strong emphasis on global inclusion and encourages nations to enact laws that promote universal access to education.