History of Special Education

By Wherlyn
  • Early Influences

    Early Influences

    In Brown v. Board of Education (1954), the Supreme Court ruled that school segregation based on race was unconstitutional. The first time the government has ruled in favor of a student who experienced inequality and prejudice. It set the path for individuals with disabilities.
  • The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA)

    The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA)

    A critical component of the ESEA was to establish a program for children with disabilities that encouraged states to create and improve programs for these children. It was later revised in the 1970s as the "Education of the Handicapped Act"
  • Period: to

    Special Olympics Founded

    Eunice Keneddy Shriver promoted the inclusion of individuals with intellectual disabilities.
    https://youtu.be/V5dPz_C_DlY?si=u0QhyFrNG582AXLn
  • Mills v Board of Education

    Mills v Board of Education

    Established the rights of students with disabilities to public education regardless of the cost. The Pennsylvania Association decided for Retarted Children. It became the legal foundation for modern special education and paved the way for the Education Act for individuals with disabilities.
    https://law.justia.com/cases/federal/district-courts/FSupp/348/866/2010674/
  • Section 504 of The Rehabilitation Act

    It is the first federal act protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities in programs receiving federal funding. It provides reasonable accommodations to ensure individuals with disabilities participate and benefit equally.
  • Education for all Handicapped Children Act

    Education for all Handicapped Children Act

    Required free and appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE) . This was the foundation of modern special education.
  • EAHCA Amendments

    EAHCA Amendments

    It extended services to children 3-5 and created early intervention for infants and toddlers. It required individualized education programs (IEPs).
  • Americans with Disabilities Act

    Americans with Disabilities Act

    It prohibited discrimination against people with disabilities in public life, including in schools and transportation. It provided the same opportunities as everyone else to enjoy the benefits of society.
  • No Child Left Behind

    No Child Left Behind

    Required schools to hold all students, including those with disabilities, to high academic standards. It aimed to improve education, and it included students with disabilities.
  • Modern Development: Individuals with Disabilities Act

    Modern Development: Individuals with Disabilities Act

    The act ensures that students with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education. UDL supports IDEA's goal of educating students with disabilities. Universal designs ensure ongoin inclusion