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1817- American School for the Deaf Opens
The first school for children with disabilities in the U.S., the American Asylum for the Education and Instruction of the Deaf and Dumb (now the American School for the Deaf), was established in Hartford, Connecticut, in 1817. It marked a significant shift toward specialized education, providing tailored instruction for children with hearing impairments. This milestone laid the foundation for the development of inclusive education and advocacy for the rights of individuals with disabilities. -
1954- Brown v. Board of Education
This landmark Supreme Court case declared that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional, emphasizing the principle that "separate but equal" has no place in education.
Significance: It set a precedent for equality in education, influencing later efforts toward inclusion of students with disabilities. -
1958-Haas v Department of Public Welfare
This Illinois Supreme Court ruling upheld the exclusion of students with disabilities from public schools, stating education was not a fundamental right for "mentally deficient children."
Significance: This decision underscored the need for federal protections for students with disabilities, eventually leading to landmark legislation. -
1968-Inaugurate Special Olympics Organization
The Special Olympics was inaugurated on July 20, 1968, with the first Summer Games at Soldier Field in Chicago. This international organization supports individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through year-round sports training and competitions. Its goals include promoting physical fitness, social interaction, and community inclusion while fostering confidence and self-esteem. The organization also offers health, education, and leadership programs to empower participants. -
1971- PARC v. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Association for Retarded Citizens (PARC) lawsuit in 1971 challenged the exclusion of children with intellectual disabilities from public schools, paving the way for groundbreaking change. The case established that all children, regardless of disability, have a constitutional right to a free and appropriate public education. This decision became a cornerstone for future legislation, including (IDEA) and promoting educational equity and inclusion. -
1972- Mills v. Board of Education
The Mills v. Board of Education case expanded on PARC by requiring public schools to provide a free and appropriate education to all students with disabilities. It emphasized that financial constraints could not be used as an excuse to deny educational access. This case reinforced the principle of equity in education, ensuring schools must accommodate students with disabilities regardless of resource limitations. -
1973- Section 504 Federal Law
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a federal law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in programs and activities receiving federal funding. It ensures equal access to education, employment, and public services by requiring reasonable accommodations for individuals with physical or mental impairments. The law aims to promote inclusivity and eliminate barriers, allowing individuals with disabilities to participate fully in society. -
1975- (EAHCA) Federal Law
The (EAHCA) is a federal law that guaranteed free and appropriate public education (FAPE) for students with disabilities. It also mandated Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
Significance: It marked the first comprehensive law protecting students with disabilities in education, later evolving into IDEA. -
1990- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
This civil rights law prohibited discrimination based on disability. Ensuring accessibility in schools and other public spaces.
Significance: The ADA expanded protections for students with disabilities, fostering inclusion in general education classrooms.
Link to More information about what disabilities are protected under ADA.
Youtube-ADA explained -
2004- (IDEA) Reauthorization
The 2004 IDEA reauthorization strengthens the law to ensure students with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment. It focuses on accountability, individualized education plans (IEPs), and school-family collaboration. The link below provides information about law and policies for individual with disabilities.
Law and Policies- Individuals with Disabilities