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The first American School for the Deaf opened in Hartford, Connecticut and was founded by Thomas Gallaudet and Laurent Clerc. This school marked the beginning of formal special education in the United States. It showed that students who were deaf could learn successfully when given appropriate instruction and support. -
The Perkins School for the Blind opened in Massachusetts and became one of the first schools in the United States dedicated to educating students with visual impairments. It helped develop specialized teaching methods and learning materials. The school also increased public awareness of the importance of educating students with disabilities. -
Brown v. Board of Education was a Supreme Court case that ruled segregation in public schools was unconstitutional. Although this case focused on racial segregation, it set an important legal precedent for equality in education. This decision later influenced court cases and laws supporting the educational rights of students with disabilities. -
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act was the first federal law that protected individuals with disabilities from discrimination. This law required schools receiving federal funding to provide accommodations and equal access to education. It helped ensure students with disabilities could participate in general education programs. https://www.ed.gov/laws-and-policy/civil-rights-laws/disability-discrimination/frequently-asked-questions-section-504-free-appropriate-public-education-fape -
The Education for All Handicapped Children Act guaranteed students with disabilities the right to a free appropriate public education. This law required schools to develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for eligible students. It also promoted educating students with disabilities alongside their non-disabled peers whenever possible. -
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act reauthorized and expanded protections for students with disabilities. IDEA emphasized educating students in the least restrictive environment and supporting inclusion in general education classrooms. This law remains the foundation of special education services in the United States today. https://youtu.be/VEuCdzoAnME?si=0RBiF-1Hw6O8xmps -
The Americans with Disabilities Act is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. It applies to schools, workplaces, transportation, and public spaces. The ADA increased accessibility and reinforced the importance of inclusion across society. -
No Child Left Behind required schools to include students with disabilities in standardized testing and accountability systems. This law focused on improving academic outcomes for all students. However, it also created challenges and pressure for students receiving special education services. -
The 2004 reauthorization of IDEA strengthened accountability and emphasized evidence-based instruction. It aligned special education with general education standards and early intervention services. This law continued to support inclusive practices for students with disabilities. -
The Every Student Succeeds Act replaced No Child Left Behind and gave states more flexibility in education decisions. It maintained protections for students with disabilities while promoting equity and inclusion. ESSA supports access to high-quality education for all learners.