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First American School for the Deaf was established by Thomas Gallaudet and Laurent Clerc in Hartford, Connecticut. It was the first school in America dedicated to educating deaf students. This school set the foundation for specialized education and teaching for students with disabilities. Timetoast -
The Perkins School for the Blind located in Watertown, Massachusetts, was founded in 1829. The school was named in honor of the organization’s incorporator, Thomas Perkins, who began to lose his sight. It was the first school in the U.S. to provide specialized instruction for students who were visually impaired. Timetoast -
The Council for Exceptional Children was founded to assist educators in providing quality education to students with disabilities. It provides training and other resources to improve teaching practices. It continues to be an essential resource, providing information and professional development for educators. -
The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that separating children in public schools based on race was unconstitutional. The decision ended legal racial segregation and influenced public education. It set the foundation for educating students with disabilities in general classrooms. -
PARC sued the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania so that students with intellectual disabilities would be allowed to attend public schools. The court ruled that these students should be in learning environments that support inclusion and the least restrictive environment. This decision later influenced other policies that shape special education and inclusion practices. Inclusion Event -
Section 504 prohibited federally funded programs from discriminating against individuals with disabilities. Schools were required to make accommodations to meet the needs of students with disabilities. Students with disabilities would have the same educational opportunities as their peers. Inclusion Event -
Students with disabilities would receive free public education that would meet their needs. The law mandated schools to educate students in the least restrictive environment. It laid the foundation for current special education services. Inclusion Event -
The ADA guarantees equal opportunities for individuals with disabilities. These individuals will receive the same access to employment and public services. It supports equality and inclusion for individuals with disabilities. -
This law made schools accountable for the performance of all students including those with disabilities. All students would take part in assessments to monitor performance and maintain federal funding. This encouraged access to standard classroom instruction for all students. -
The act was signed by President Obama to replace NCLB and reauthorizes the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, ensuring every child succeeds. It shifted the law from the federal level to the state level, giving states flexibility in implementing policies. It emphasized inclusion of all students in school activities.