The first Annual Report to Congress on the implementation of P.L. 94-142 highlights the early progress states made in serving children with disabilities during the first full year of the Act (1977–78) . The report shows that millions of children began receiving access to special education and related services, with most students placed in regular classrooms with needed supports. It also details early adoption of key principles such as least restrictive environment, individualized services, and expanded training for teachers and school personnel.

The report notes that states and local districts were building systems for monitoring, information-sharing, and compliance with federal requirements, while also confronting challenges such as shortages of trained educators and the need for stronger cross-agency collaboration. Despite these barriers, federal funding increases and strong early implementation efforts created a foundation for meeting the goals of the Act—ensuring that all children with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education.