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First public school for students with disabilities
Charles Michel L’Epeé established the first public school in France dedicated to individuals with disabilities. He emphasized the importance of teaching language and phonetics through innovative methods tailored specifically for deaf and blind students. His work laid the groundwork for modern special education practices and inspired similar initiatives worldwide. -
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Special Education and Inclusive Education
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Jean Jacques Rousseau Publishes Emile
Jean Jacques Rousseau released a book called Emile. This book advocated that learning should progress at a pace that is suited to a child’s cognitive development and with limited influence from society. His ideas emphasized the importance of adapting education to individual needs and minimizing external pressures, which influenced later educational theories and practices. -
Council for Exceptional Children
Elizabeth Farrell founded the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC). It provides resources, professional development, and advocacy to support educators in delivering high-quality, inclusive education. The CEC has significantly influenced special education policy and practices, ensuring that the needs of exceptional students are recognized and met. More can be found in the following website: https://exceptionalchildren.org/about-us -
NARC Act
The National Association for Retarded Children (NARC) was founded, advocating for the educational rights of children with disabilities. This organization played a role in promoting the inclusion of students with intellectual disabilities in less restrictive learning environments, emphasizing the need for appropriate educational settings that integrate them with their peers whenever possible. NARC’s advocacy helped drive legislation to ensure an inclusive educational experience for students. -
Brown vs. Board of Education
Brown vs. Board of Education affirmed the right to equal educational opportunities for all children. This decision underscored the importance of non-discriminatory practices, which extended to special education by reinforcing the need for inclusive and supportive environments for students with disabilities. It helped pave the way for future legislation ensuring that students with special needs receive appropriate and equitable educational support. -
Elementary and Secondary Education Act
The Elementary and Secondary Education Act passed. This act offered funds to schools to create suitable environments for children in general, which includes kids with disabilities. This act laid the foundation for future legislation like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) by emphasizing educational equity for all students, including those with special needs. More information can be found in the following video:
https://youtu.be/4okt6u6OEkg?si=z5yp1CFz1IrSNhXT -
PARC vs. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania Association for Retarded Children vs. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania established the right of children with disabilities to a free and appropriate public education. This case mandated that schools provide individualized educational programs tailored to each student’s specific needs (IEP). It emphasized that educational services should be provided in the least restrictive environment possible, integrating students with disabilities into regular educational settings. -
Mills vs. District of Columbia Board of Education
Mills vs. District of Columbia Board of Education reinforced the right to procedural due process for children with disabilities and their families. This case ensured that children with disabilities had the right to free and appropriate public education, and that families had the right to fair procedures when advocating for their children’s educational needs. It emphasized the necessity for schools to follow established procedures and provide appropriate services. -
Public Law 94-142 enacted
Public Law 94-142 guaranteed free and appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment for children with disabilities, along with individualized education plans and due process rights. This legislation ensured that students with disabilities would receive tailored education that met their unique needs and were integrated into general education settings as much as possible. It provided families with the right to challenge educational decisions and advocate for children’s needs. -
Public Law 94-142 revised
Public Law 94-142 was revised in 1990 and became the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. IDEA built upon its principles by strengthening provisions for individualized education plans (IEPs) and expanding the emphasis on inclusive education. Additionally, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was passed in 1990, mandating accommodations for people with disabilities in various areas, including the workplace, public transportation, and telecommunications. -
Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)
The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), passed in 2015, is similar to the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). Both focus on fair education and better student outcomes. It keeps important support for struggling schools and accountability but gives states more flexibility in how they handle standards and tests. ESSA aims to meet the needs of all students, including those with disabilities.