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National Defense Education Act
One of the earliest educational laws passed in America. This act provided funding for United States educational institutions at every level. The act was one of many initiatives passed by Eisenhower in an attempt to strengthen the overall power of America through educating its citizens. -
The Civil Rights Act of 1964
This primary education law protects people from being discriminated against in educational programs based off their race, nationality or color. This act also authorized the Commissioner of Education to create programs to assist educators in dealing with issues stemming from desegregation. The bill was an early step in the direction of equality for minorities. This bill was originally proposed by JFK but he was assassinated shortly after. Subsequently, LBJ passed the bill once assuming office. -
The Education for All Handicapped Children Act
This act was written to ensure that all handicapped children would have access to a free education that is deigned to meet their needs. It requires that public schools accept funding to provide children with disabilities with equal access education and one free meal a day. This law was enacted by the 94th United States Congress and was a landmark in providing equal education for students with mental and physical disabilities. -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
This four part law ensures that children with disabilities are given access to a free appropriate public education (FAPE) that is designed to meet their personal needs. IDEA is made up of six elements that touch on the laws focal points. These include: Individualized Education Programs (IEP); Least Restrictive Environment (LRE); Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE); Appropriate Evaluation: Parent and Teacher Participation: and Procedural Safeguards. This law was signed by George H.W. Bush. -
No Child Left Behind Act
This bill was enacted by the 109th United States Congress and signed into law by George W. Bush. It required states that wanted to receive federal funding to develop basic skill assessments that could be administered to all students within a certain grade. The idea was to set high standards and measurable goals to improve the the individual outcome of students education. The act was replaced by the Every Student Succeeds Act in 2015 after much criticism.