Massachusetts Special Education Regulations 603 CMR 28.00 - The purpose of 603 CMR 28.00 is to ensure that eligible Massachusetts students receive special education services designed to develop the student's individual educational potential in the least restrictive environment in accordance with applicable state and federal laws.

No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) - Signed into law by President George W. Bush on January 8, 2002, the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) is the principal federal law affecting education from kindergarten through high school. NCLB is built on four pillars: expanded local control and flexibility; doing what works based on scientific research; accountability for results; and more options for parents. The main goal of NCLB is to help all students in the Commonwealth to reach proficiency in English language arts/reading and mathematics by the year 2014.

Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 (IDEA) - The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a law ensuring services to children with disabilities throughout the nation. IDEA governs how states and public agencies provide early intervention, special education and related services to more than 6.5 million eligible infants, toddlers, children and youth with disabilities.