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The American School for the Deaf was founded in Hartford, Connecticut by Thomas Gallaudet and Laurent Clerc. It was the first permanent school for students who were deaf in the United States. This school demonstrated that students with disabilities could be educated successfully and laid the foundation for special education programs nationwide. -
The Perkins School for the Blind was established in Massachusetts to educate students with visual impairments. It became well known for educating Helen Keller. The school helped shift public attitudes toward educating individuals with disabilities rather than institutionalizing them. website link: https://www.perkins.org/school/ -
Gallaudet College (now Gallaudet University) was established to provide higher education for deaf and hard-of-hearing students. It was the first college of its kind in the world. The institution continues to be a leader in deaf education and advocacy. website link: https://gallaudet.edu/about/#mission-vision -
Public schools began creating separate classrooms for students with disabilities. These programs marked the start of special education services within public education. However, they often isolated students from general education peers. -
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights declared education a basic human right. While international, it influenced U.S. educational policies. The document supported later arguments for inclusive education. -
Brown v. Board of Education ruled that “separate but equal” schools were unconstitutional. Even though the case focused on racial segregation, it strongly influenced later disability rights cases. This decision helped support the idea that all students deserve equal access to education. -
President Kennedy created a panel to improve services for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The panel promoted community-based education instead of institutionalization. It influenced future special education laws. -
FERPA protects the privacy of student education records. It gave parents rights regarding access to educational information. This law is especially important for students receiving special education services. -
The ADA is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in public spaces, employment, and education. It ensured accessibility and equal opportunities. This law strengthened inclusion beyond the classroom. -
IDEA replaced PL 94-142 and expanded protections for students with disabilities. It emphasized early intervention, transition services, and parent involvement. IDEA reinforced the importance of educating students alongside their non-disabled peers when appropriate.
video link: https://youtu.be/3XMndYNEGFA