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K–12 teaching and learning · from the UNC School of Education

Classroom » Reference

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

Learn more about Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

The law and disabilities
A brief overview of two major laws — the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 — that protect students with disabilities in schools.
By Margaret P. Weiss.
Respecting differences
This guidance and drama unit offers students the opportunity to identify prejudices and understand how certain character traits such as tolerance, respect, and kindness affect their choice of behavior. Since this lesson addresses sensitive issues, teachers should avoid situations that could be hurtful to individuals or groups. This unit can be adapted to almost any age group or ability level.
Format: lesson plan (grade 6–8 English Language Development, Guidance, and Theater Arts Education)
By Daryl Walker and Judy Peele.
Plessy v. Ferguson
The text of the Supreme Court's decision in Plessy v. Ferguson upholding the constitutionality of racial segregation even in public accommodations (particularly railroads), under the doctrine of “separate but equal.”
Format: court decision/primary source

Resources on the web

Council for Exceptional Children
An organization dedicated to improving the outcomes for people with exceptionalities, disabilities, and giftedness and provides resources for educators. (Learn more)
Format: website/general
Provided by:

1975 federal law (amended in 1997) under which schools must guarantee that all children with disabilities receive “free, appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment.” The statute requires that children with disabilities be educated with children who are not disabled, and that removal from the regular classroom may occur only when the nature or severity of the disability interferes with the successful delivery of aid and services.

Examples and resources

“The Law and Disabilities” by Margaret P. Weiss explains IDEA and Section 504 of the Rehibilitation Act and how teachers and schools can comply with them.