History & Timeline

The first federal grants program to fund education for children with disabilities in state-operated or state-supported schools and institutions

Law establishing rights of people with developmental disabilities to services and supports that allow them to live a more independent life, resulting in the formation of Regional Centers

The first disability civil rights law to be enacted in the United States that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in programs that receive federal financial assistance

Guarantees free appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE). Mandates Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) with special education and related services designed to meet the needs of each child (aged 3-21) with disabilities, and "wherever possible" to be educated with children who do not have disabilities

Extends all civil rights protections to people with disabilities, including protection from discrimination in employment, transportation, public accommodations, telecommunications, and activities of state and local governments.

Includes transition and assistive technology services, expands eligibility to include children with autism and traumatic brain injuries. Protecting children and adults with disabilities from exclusion, and unequal treatment in schools, jobs and the community.

Planning commences to launch a statewide early intervention system for children birth to three, and a consortium to form the statewide network

Includes family support, establishing the Early Start Family Resource Centers as an integral part of California’s Early Start system

Bylaws adopted and Executive Committee established

ASK Matrix developed by the FRCNCA, articulating competencies for staff across the state

Commends the establishment of a family support services system for young children with disabilities and their families, providing vital linkages to resources. 

“The support and information provided by resource parents helped to reduce the feelings of being overwhelmed that new parents commonly mentioned….widely regarded as instrumental and effective in facilitating critical activities which promote parent-professional partnerships and interagency collaboration, including information and referral, community outreach and public awareness, and training. Family satisfaction with FRC services was high.”

Aligns closely with IDEA and No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB), helps to ensure equity, accountability and excellence in education for children with disabilities

Establishes Family to Family Health Information Centers in all States and the District of Columbia