Timeline of Important Foundational Legislation and Case Law

This timeline highlights pivotal legislation and court cases that have shaped the rights and educational opportunities for students with exceptionalities in the United States. Understanding this history is fundamental to recognizing the progress and ongoing challenges in special education.

Brown v. Board of Education (1954): A landmark Supreme Court case that declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional, laying the groundwork for future legislation advocating for equitable education for all students, including those with disabilities.  

Reference: Brown v. Board of Education, 347 U.S. 483 (1954).

Mills v. Board of Education of the District of Columbia (1972): This ruling reinforced that students with disabilities cannot be denied a public education and that schools are required to provide appropriate educational services.  

Reference: Mills v. Board of Education of the District of Columbia, 348 F. Supp. 866 (D.D.C. 1972).

Individuals With Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) (1975): A crucial piece of legislation that ensured students with disabilities are provided Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) tailored to their individual needs.  

Reference: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, 20 U.S.C. § 1400 (1975).

Rowley v. Hendrick Hudson School District (1982): This case clarified the standard of what constitutes a Free Appropriate Public Education, leading to ongoing debates about the appropriate level of services required by law.  

Reference: Rowley v. Hendrick Hudson School District, 458 U.S. 176 (1982).

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) (1990): A wide-reaching civil rights law prohibiting discrimination based on disability and ensuring equal access to education, employment, and public services.  

Reference: Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, 42 U.S.C. §§ 12101-12213 (1990).