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Founded by Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet and Laurent Clerc in Hartford, CT. This marked the first U.S. institution providing formal education to students with hearing impairments. It paved the way for specialized education programs nationwide. -
The Council for Exceptional Children was established by educators to advocate for children with disabilities. It became the first major professional organization committed to improving special education. -
The Supreme Court ruled segregation
unconstitutional. Although this event is not about disability, it set the precedent that "separate is not equal," influencing future special education laws and inclusion of students with disabilities and minorities in general. -
This case guaranteed children with intellectual disabilities the right to a free and public education. It was one of the first cases pushing for schools to provide equal learning opportunities for students who had disabilities. -
Prohibited discrimination against people with disabilities in federally funded programs. This law required schools to provide accommodations for students with disabilities, laying the groundwork for inclusion.
https://www.ed.gov/laws-and-policy/individuals-disabilities/section-504 -
This law guaranteed free appropriate public education (FAPE) and introduced Individualized Education Programs (IEPs).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=89_PTxKGVbI -
This amendment expanded services to preschool children with disabilities and created early intervention programs for infants and toddlers. It recognized the importance of supporting early education. -
ADA was a civil rights law that extended protections to people with disabilities in public spaces like schools, and employment. It reinforced inclusion, and equal opportunities beyond education. -
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act was updated, requiring students with disabilities to be included in general education classes whenever possible. It emphasized access to the general curriculum and inclusivity -
This law focused on accountability for all students, including those with disabilities. NCLB required schools to measure progress of students with disabilities, ensuring they were not excluded from state testing and the educational standards.