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Thomas Gallaudet and Laurent Clery founded the first school for kids who are deaf in Hartford, Connecticut. This was the beginning of specialized education in United States and it gave the opening for other schools serving students with disabilities. -
Abraham Lincoln signed the charted that created Gallaudet University in Washington, D.C. For student who were deaf or hard of hearing this was the first institute of higher education for them. -
In Providence, Rhode Island was the first public school special education class. This was an important step in recognizing that they needed to tailor instruction for those with disabilities in public education. -
This Supreme Court decision established that "separate is not equal" even though it was focused on racial segregation. It established the fact that student with disabilities have to be included in general classrooms. -
The Pennsylvania Association for Retarded Citizens sued the state, to ensure the right of children with disabilities to free public education. This influenced federal legislation on special education. -
This civil rights laws prohibits discrimination against those with disabilities in any programs that are receiving federal funding. This was the first federal law that protects students with disabilities in schools. -
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The court case showed the importance of placing students with disabilities in the least restrictive environment. -
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Congress reauthorization IDEA, emphasizes accountability, early intervention and inclusion in education. This strengthened the alignment of special education and broader educational reform movements.
