1. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA):
- The ADA prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in various settings, including schools and workplaces.
- It requires schools to make reasonable modifications and accommodations to ensure equal opportunities and access for students with disabilities.
2. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA):
- IDEA is a federal law that guarantees the rights of children with disabilities to receive free and appropriate public education (FAPE) tailored to their individual needs.
- It establishes specific provisions and procedures for identifying, evaluating, and providing special education services to eligible children.
3. The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504):
- Section 504 prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in federally funded programs and activities, including education.
- It complements the ADA by requiring schools to make accommodations and modifications to ensure that students with disabilities have equal opportunities to participate in educational programs and activities.
4. The Assistive Technology Act (ATA):
- The ATA provides funding to states for the development and distribution of assistive technology (AT) devices and services to help individuals with disabilities overcome their functional challenges and live more independently.
5. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA):
- FERPA protects the privacy of student educational records, including those of students with disabilities. It sets forth certain rights for parents and students to access and control the disclosure of their educational records.
6. The No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB):
- NCLB includes provisions related to the education of students with disabilities, such as accountability measures and requirements for highly qualified teachers.
7. State and Local Laws:
- In addition to these federal laws, many states and localities have their own laws and regulations that address the needs of disabled children and those with special educational needs.
It's important to note that these legal requirements may be subject to ongoing revisions, interpretations, and case-by-case application. To ensure compliance and appropriate support for students with disabilities, it is advisable to consult with legal professionals and stay updated on the latest developments in disability law and special education regulations.