What significant ruling did PARC vs. Commonwealth of PA establish?

The ruling in PARC vs. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania was pivotal in establishing the right to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) for students with disabilities. This landmark case specifically addressed the need for states to provide special education services to children with intellectual disabilities, significantly advancing the rights of these students and laying the groundwork for future legislation, such as the Education for All Handicapped Children Act (now known as IDEA).

By guaranteeing special education for all children, the case affirmed that every child has the right to access educational opportunities, irrespective of their disabilities. This ruling marked a shift in educational policy, moving towards inclusivity and equity in educational access for students with special needs. It emphasized that educational institutions have a responsibility to create appropriate educational programs tailored to the individual needs of students with disabilities, thus ensuring they receive the necessary support to succeed in their educational endeavors.