Special education timeline of events history of special education 1 1024x536

History of Special Education and Inclusive Education in the U.S.

  • First American School for the Deaf (1817)

    First American School for the Deaf (1817)

    In Hartford, Connecticut, Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet established the first deaf school. This school was the first in the United States to provide formal instruction to deaf children. For students with disabilities, it signaled the start of structured schooling.
  • Perkins School for the Blind (1829)

    Perkins School for the Blind (1829)

    The first school for students with visual impairments in the United States was the Perkins School for the Blind in Boston. To address the needs of blind students, it offered specific teaching techniques. The school established a standard for upcoming initiatives that assist students with impairments.
  • Brown v. Board of Education (1954) (Inclusion Event #1)

    Brown v. Board of Education (1954) (Inclusion Event #1)

    Racial segregation in public schools was declared unlawful by the Supreme Court. The push for inclusive education for individuals with impairments was sparked by this historic case. It influenced legislation that supports all students' equitable access to education.
  • First U.S. Special Education Advocacy Organization (1960s)

    First U.S. Special Education Advocacy Organization (1960s)

    To advance the rights of students with disabilities, advocacy groups were established. These organizations raised awareness of inclusiveness and had an impact on changes to policies. They influenced state and federal legislation pertaining to special education.
  • Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) (1965) (Inclusion Event #2)

    Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) (1965) (Inclusion Event #2)

    Under ESEA, schools serving underprivileged or special needs kids received government support. It sought to increase access to education and lessen educational disparities. By providing schools with resources to support the success of all children, the act promoted inclusive classrooms.
  • Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EAHCA) (1975)

    Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EAHCA) (1975)

    Children with impairments were promised a free and suitable public education under the EAHCA. Each student's individualized education program (IEP) had to be created by the school. When feasible, this law made it possible for students with impairments to attend classes with their peers. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aH7R5_3yD1o
  • Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) (1990) (Video Link Event)

    Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) (1990) (Video Link Event)

    EAHCA was superseded by IDEA, which improved the rights of kids with disabilities. It placed a strong emphasis on learning in the least restrictive setting (LRE) wherever feasible. For further information, click this link to view a useful video that explains IDEA. https://www.ada.gov/
  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) (1990) (Website Link Event)

    Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) (1990) (Website Link Event)

    The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) forbids discrimination against disabled individuals in public places, employment, and educational institutions. It guarantees equal opportunity and accessibility for people with disabilities. The official ADA website has additional information regarding the law.
  • No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) (2001)

    No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) (2001)

    Schools were held accountable for the education of all pupils, including those with disabilities, under NCLB. It promoted the inclusion of special needs pupils in regular classrooms. The goal of the law was to close achievement gaps and enhance results.
  • Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) (2015)

    Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) (2015)

    With the repeal of NCLB, ESSA allowed states greater latitude in their educational policy. It keeps encouraging inclusiveness and safeguarding students with impairments. Students with disabilities can study in regular classes with their peers according to the law.