Impact of the Civil Rights Laws

Enforcement of the federal civil rights laws has helped bring about profound changes in American education and improved the educational opportunities of millions of students. Many barriers that once prevented individuals from freely choosing the educational opportunities and careers they would like to pursue have been brought down. Many school systems are now making it possible for students who are not proficient in English to participate effectively in their educational programs. Many more students with disabilities are now able, with the provision of supplementary aids and services, to participate in regular education classes.

In addition, the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001 (NCLB), the law that comprehensively reforms federal education programs, promotes the Department's mission of ensuring equal access to education and promoting educational excellence throughout the nation. The NCLB Act contains specific provisions to ensure that all children will have access to high-quality education regardless of race, ethnicity, sex, disability or socio-economic status.

The civil rights laws have opened the doors to our schools, classrooms, auditoriums, athletic fields and arenas. In response, people from the many diverse backgrounds that represent today's America are coming through the doors, on the way to becoming our future leaders in business, government, science, the arts and education. The civil rights laws, combined with the NCLB Act, will ensure that these doors remain open to all.