Who was responsible for the reauthorization and renaming of the Education for All Handicapped Children Act to IDEA?

• A. President Reagan
• B. President Clinton
• C. President Ford
• D. President Bush

Answer: (D)

The reauthorization and renaming of the Education for All Handicapped Children Act to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) was accomplished under the leadership of President George H.W. Bush. This significant legislative change occurred in 1990, emphasizing the nation's commitment to ensuring that children with disabilities have the right to a free appropriate public education. Under IDEA, the focus expanded to not only include educational provisions but also to stress the importance of the rights of individuals with disabilities and their families, reflecting a broader understanding of special education needs.

Other presidencies did play critical roles in education and disability rights, but the renaming and reauthorization of this specific legislation is attributed to President Bush’s administration, highlighting the importance of advocacy and policy reform during that time.