-
1st School for Students with Disabilities in the US, the American School for the Deaf, opens in Hartford, Connecticut.
The American School for the Deaf opened in Hartford, CT, becoming the first permanent school for students with disabilities in the United States. The school was founded by Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet, Laurent Clerc, and Dr. Mason Cogswell. The school's establishment was a significant milestone in education history as it demonstrated that students with special needs can thrive when given appropriate support. -
Gallaudet University (for the deaf) Founded
Gallaudet University was founded in Washington, D.C., as the first college in the world. Originally called the Columbia Institution for the Deaf and Dumb, it was authorized to grant college degrees by President Abraham Lincoln. The university provides higher education opportunities in a fully accessible environment and is considered a symbol of Deaf pride and empowerment. A deaf student's fight for civil rights -
(CEC) Council for Exceptional Children Founded
The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) is a professional organization that supports the education of students with disabilities and giftedness. It was founded in 1922 by educators who wanted to improve teaching and services for children with special needs. CEC was created to share research, advocate for better policies, and help teachers use effective strategies in the classroom. -
1st School in FL for students with disabilities opens, Hope Haven in Jacksonville, FL
Hope Haven was founded in Jacksonville, Florida to serve malnourished and tuberculosis-infected children. The school quickly recognized the broader needs of children with various disabilities. This led to the creation of Florida's first special education class within the facility and represents the state's initial foray into structured educational services for children with special needs. -
Brown vs. Board of Education
Brown v. Board of Education was a landmark 1954 Supreme Court case that declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional. The Court ruled that "separate but equal" schools for Black and white students were inherently unequal and violated the 14th Amendment. This decision helped start the process of desegregating schools across the United States. Brown v Board of Education -
(ESEA) Elementary and Secondary Education Act
The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) was passed in 1965 to provide federal funding to public schools, especially those serving low-income students. It aimed to close educational achievement gaps and ensure all children had access to quality education. ESEA was the foundation for many future education laws, including No Child Left Behind and the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA). -
PARC v. Pennsylvania
Parc vs. PA was a landmark case that ensured children with intellectual disabilities had the right to a free public education. The court ruled that the state could not deny these children access to public schools based on their disabilities. This case helped lay the groundwork for national special education laws, such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). -
Mills v. Board of Education of D.C.
Mills v. Board of Education of DC was a court case that ruled public schools must provide free education to all children with disabilities. The court said schools could not deny services just because a student needed extra support or the school lacked funds. Like PARC, this case helped lead to the creation of federal special education laws, including IDEA. -
(EAHCA)Education for All Handicapped Children Act
The Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EAHCA) was passed in 1975 to ensure that all children with disabilities have access to a free and appropriate public education (FAPE). It required schools to create Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and provide services in the least restrictive environment (LRE). This law was the foundation for special education rights and later became known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). -
(IDEA) Individuals with Disabilities Education Act replaces EAHCA
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a federal law that ensures students with disabilities receive a free, appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE). It requires schools to provide special education services, develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and involve families in the educational planning process. IDEA guarantees equal access to education and supports the rights of children with disabilities from birth through age 21. -
No Child Left Behind
No Child Left Behind (NCLB) was a federal education law passed in 2001 that aimed to improve student achievement and close learning gaps. It required schools to give annual standardized tests and hold them accountable for student performance. Schools had to show progress for all students, including those with disabilities, or face consequences. -
(ESSA) Every Student Succeeds Act
The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) is a federal education law passed in 2015, replacing No Child Left Behind. It gives states more control over setting academic standards, testing, and accountability systems, while still requiring support for struggling schools and student groups. ESSA aims to ensure all students receive a high-quality education. More information:
ESSA