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The American School for Deaf
The American School for the Deaf, located in Hartford, Connecticut, was the first permanent school for deaf students in the United States. It was founded by Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet, Laurent Clerc, and Dr. Mason Cogswell, the school marked a significant milestone in providing formal education to students with disabilities. It became a model for other schools and introduced American Sign Language as foundation of education for the deaf. -
Council for Exceptional Children
The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) was founded by a group of educators, which includes Elizabeth Farrell, to advocate for children with disabilities. It became one of the first organizations dedicated to improving educational outcomes for exceptional learners. The CEC has played a major role in advancing legislation, research, and professional development in special education. -
Brown v. Board of Education
Although this Supreme Court case focused on racial segregation, it set an example for challenging inequities in education, including for students with disabilities. The case emphasized "separate but equal". This laid the groundwork for future inclusion by declaring that segregation in public schools was unconstitutional. https://www.naacpldf.org/brown-vs-board/ -
Elementary and Secondary Education Act
The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) was signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson. ESEA provided federal funding to schools to help meet the educational needs of disadvantaged children, including those with disabilities. This event marked the first time the federal government played a significant role in public education and emphasized the need to support all learners. -
PARC v. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania Association for Retarded Children (PARC) v. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania is a case that established the right of children with intellectual disabilities to access public education. It challenged the state's exclusion of these children from public schools, arguing that education is a fundamental right. This case became a spark for broader legislation addressing the rights of students with disabilities. -
Education for All Handicapped Children Act
The Education for All Handicapped Children Act required all public schools to provide a free and appropriate public education to students with disabilities. It established key principles such as individualized education programs, and the least restrictive environment. This laid the foundation for modern special education. -
American with Disabilities Act
The American with Disabilities Act (ADA) was signed into law by President George H.W. Bush. The ADA prohibited discrimination based on disability in various areas, including education. This ensured that students with disabilities had equal access to educational opportunities, physical accessibility in schools, and accommodations for their needs. -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Amendment reinforced the rights of students with disabilities to be educated in the least restrictive environment. It also strengthened accountability measures for schools and included planning to prepare students with disabilities for life beyond school. This helped emphasize the importance of including students with disabilities in general education classrooms and improving educational outcomes. https://youtu.be/66g6TbJbs2g?si=qUSSCL2Zv5jwgNF5 -
Reauthorization of IDEA
The reauthorization of Individuals with Disabilities Education Act aligned with the No Child Left Behind Act, emphasizing accountability and high standards for students with disabilities. It required schools to use evidence-based interventions and enhanced parental involvement in the educational process. The changes reflected a commitment to improving outcomes for students with disabilities. -
Every Student Succeeds Act
Every Students Succeeds Act (ESSA) replaced the No Child Left Behind Act and further emphasized inclusive education. It required states to develop plans to improve educational equity and outcomes for all students, including those with disabilities. The law supported the inclusion of students with disabilities in general education classrooms and mandated accommodations for their success.