The American Disabilities Act (ADA), the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (504) are legislation put into place by the United States Federal Government in an attempt to improve the living and educational lives of those with disabilities. All three serve a distinct purpose but also have several aspects that overlap. IDEA Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 1975 was passed by congress helped changed public education for children with disabilities. It made it possible that all children could receive a free appropriate public education. This law was far more progressive than those of the past. It stated that “special” education was to be provided in the least limiting setting. This means that students are to be educated in the best way possible in a regular classroom. (Mastropieri & Scruggs, 2014, p. 3) Before the passing of IDEA disabled student were either put into institutions or their parents had to put them into private schools which did not have the capabilities to educate them correctly. After its initiation students with disabilities now received free, suitable education. (Mastropieri & Scruggs, 2014, p. 3) 504 …show more content…
Even though some private schools may be exempt from the law, both public schools and the workforce are not. There may be students that do not fall under the IDEA legislation but they could receive services under 504. Issues such as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and asthma are under the 504 mandate. To qualify these issues limit major live activity. (Mastropieri & Scruggs, 2014, p.