ABSTRACT
This chapter sets the stage for the current, contemporary notion of special education, best methods for educating students with special needs, and legal challenges that may be yet to come. Never intended to be a ''lega'' environment, education in the latter part of the previous century was steeped in litigation. It began because of a sincere desire on the part of all teachers, parents, and community members to meet the needs of all learners. Amanda J. was a student in an early childhood education program of the Clark County School District in Las Vegas, Nevada. In March 1995, she was evaluated by a school district psychologist and speech pathologist, both of whom diagnosed Amanda with possible autism. The chapter provides insight into the legal thoughts that have governed the past half century relative to special education.
