Chapter 1: Special Education Legislation

Introduction

The world of special education is surrounded by laws, rules, and regulations designed to ensure access and guidance in the education of students with disabilities. Much of our focus as teachers is on the instruction and support we provide to students with disabilities. However, it is necessary to have a basic understanding of the laws that support special education services.

In this chapter, we will cover the basic principles of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, some key history and legislation related to special education, a few major cases that have been instrumental in changing education for students with disabilities, and a collection of terms with definitions.