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First school for the deaf
On April 15, 1817, Rev. Thomas Gallaudet opened the first school for the deaf that was called The Connecticut Asylum for the Education and Instruction of the Deaf and Dumb in Hartford Connecticut. Along with religious training the school trained in bookbinding, cabinetmaking, printing, needlework, and shoemaking. These trades were deemed appropriate for deaf individuals. Today the school is now known as The American school for the Deaf. -
The Perkins school for Blind
In 1829 The Perkins school for blind was founded by John Dix Fisher and Samuel Gridley Howe in Boston Massachusetts making it the first Blind school in America. This school provided equal education opportunity for visually impaired individuals. Such individuals were indulged in academics, music, and physical activity that encouraged long-term well-being and opportunities. -
Department of Special Education
The Department of Special Education was created by the National Education Association in 1897. This covered the rights of people with disabilities with a guaranteed education. It also provided various training programs for educators on becoming special education teachers and have the tools needed to provide adequate education. -
The Arc
The National Association for Retarded Children (NARC) was founded in 1950 by parents who wanted equality for their children with Mental disabilities. Due to this, the idea of Public Law 94-142 was formed that states every mentally retarded child had the right to an education that meets their individual needs. The name was later changed in 1992 to The Arc of the United States (The Arc) removing the negative notation of the word Retardation. -
Brown v. Board of Education
On May 17, 1954, the Brown v. Board of Education case was a pivotal case that opened the doors for equality and inclusion. This resulted in the Supreme Court ruling saying in spite of fair resources school segregation by race was deemed not constitutional. It was the pretense that will pave the way for future legislation for individuals with disabilities.
Brown v. Board of Ed. -
Elementary and Secondary Education Act
On April 9th, 1965, The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) passed. Making it the first major involvement in funding public education to later help special education legislation. It addressed underprivileged children not having equal educational opportunities. It was later named the Education of the Handicapped Act in 1970.This act established a grant program to help the states develop educational programs and resources for individuals with disabilities. -
The right to education- Disability Act
January 7th ,1971 Pennsylvania Association for Retarded Children (PARC) V. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Fought against excluding individuals with mental retardation from public education and training. Saying that parents’ ought to participate in educational placement of their child. The following year in 1972 Mills v. Board of Education of District of Columbia case ruled in favor of children having the right to an education no matter how much it cost the school. -
Public Law 94-142
On November 19, 1975, Congress proposed Public Law 94-142 in 1975 enforced that all children with disabilities would have a right to education, establishing a system to which State and local educational agencies may be held accountable for providing educational services for all handicapped children. Schools are required to ensure that all children, regardless of their disability, receive a free and appropriate public education (FAPE). -
IDEA ACT
In 1990 the Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EAHCA) was renamed the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) ensured that public schools provide free and appropriate education to all children with disabilities and ensures access to the least restrictive environment (LRE). Redefining the word “disability” to include children with autism and brain injuries. Students participate in standardized assessments and be included in general education classrooms. -
Americans with Disabilities Act
July 26, 1990, The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is passed, prohibiting discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including schools, work environment, as well as in public transportation, and telecommunications. -
No Child Left Behind Act
January 8, 2002, The No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) 2001 was signed and passed by President George W. Bush. It held schools accountable for the performance of all students, including those with disabilities, and encouraging inclusion in general education settings. -
Assistive Technology Act of 2004 (ATAP)
On October 25, 2004, President Bush signed the Assistive Technology Act of 2004 (ATAP). It was passed by the Senate on September 30, 2004. It gives people with disabilities the opportunity to participate in education, employment, and daily activities through assistive technology. Giving them and equal playing field with other members of their communities. -
Every Student Succeeds Act
December 10, 2015 Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) was signed and passed by President Obama replacing No Child Left behind Act (NCLB). Upholding the nature of NCLB, the ESSA provides opportunities for schools when students are not making appropriate progress. Focuses on the importance of inclusion and accommodation allowing students to participate in less restrictive settings. -
COVID-19 Pandemic
March 2020, The COVID-19 pandemic presented unforeseen challenges for the education of all students, more so students with disabilities. This showcase need in remote learning settings and digital equity. Continuous advancements in inclusive practices such as Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and assistive technologies will lead to a more need for individualized learning and inclusion in general education settings.
Covid19