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American School for the Deaf
Gallaudet started to establish the first permanent school for the deaf in the US. The American School of the Deaf was established on April 15, 1817. This school served as a “mother school” as a model school/ program that became an onsite training and practicum for educators for deaf students. This is one of the first important events in history concerning education for students with disabilities. This is the point where formal deaf education begins in the U.S. Source: (History & Cogswell, 2022) -
Braille invents the raised point alphabet
Louis Braille invented a universal system for reading and writing. Braille invented this system when was 15 and he published his first book Method of Writing Words, Music and Plain Songs by Means of Dots, for use by the Blind and Arranged for them in 1829. Braille has since been adapted to almost every known language and is an essential tool for blind people everywhere. This important event created a path for many blind children to learn braille in schools. Source: (Roth & Fee, 2011) -
Community Mental Health Act Signed into Law
John Kennedy proposed a plan for mental health care, with comprehensive community mental health centers at its core. Kennedy signed a bill to free many thousands of Americans with Mental illnesses from living in institutions. President Kennedy called for society to embrace a new vision for people with mental health disorders and developmental disabilities. There was a need for a warm community for women, men, and all children with mental health disorders. Source: (Wbur, 2013) -
Elementary and secondary education Act
This Act is a program created by the USDE to Distribute funding to schools with a high percentage of students from low-income families. Title III provided for special education and related services in isolated/ rural areas. This important event because Students in special education need access to resources to help them succeed. School systems would be reformed and reach out to children who have been neglected by the education system. Source: (Social Welfare History Project, 2022) -
The Education for Handicapped Children Act
This Act required all public schools accepting federal funds to provide equal access to education for children with physical and mental disabilities. It required schools to evaluate children with disabilities and create an educational plan with parent input. This was a very important event that ensured children with disabilities in public schooling to have an educational experience that is accommodated to them. (Education for all handicapped children act, 2022)