This article presents a panel discussion held to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EAHCA), commonly referred to as PL 94-142. The panel discussion was one part of a statewide Commemoration in California. A seven member panel, consisting of families and educators were invited to share their experiences with special education since the passage of PL 94-142 in 1975. The panel members' stories provide a picture about where special education began and how far everyone has come. Their stories remind educators about the importance of their role in the public education of all students. As the field of special education continues to develop, their stories remind everyone that at the center of special education--its very purpose and goals--are the students. The purpose of this article is to re-visit the early years of PL 94-142, highlighting what these legal changes meant for professionals in the field of special education, students, and their parents. (Contains 2 notes.)