historical analysis of related services litigation for handicapped students

Historically, the rights of handicapped children evolved slowly until the enactment of the Education for All Handicapped Children Act of 1975. It was this Act that guaranteed handicapped students access to a "free appropriate public education." Since the implementation of this legislation, its ambiguous language has caused controversy to arise over what constitutes an appropriate education. One of the more problematic areas has been that of "related services," where the courts have been left to interpret the parameters of these services. The purpose of this study was to provide updated knowledge in related services litigation so professionals may develop procedures and make appropriate decisions regarding the individual needs of handicapped children. The study was limited to specific areas of related services including: medical, school health services, physical and occupational therapy, and transportation of the physically impaired. An analysis of related service provisions for handicapped children in the State of Florida was examined with data presented on the present status of school health services for these students within the state. Research questions included in this study dealt with the parameters of related services. A selected review of related service decisions at both the court and state administrative level was analyzed in the areas the study addressed. These decisions are shown in the summary tables with the name of the case and point of law presented. Suggested guidelines are provided for those persons who make decisions on behalf of handicapped students. These recommendations are not to be considered legal opinions, but only to provide guidance in the complex area of related services.