1

Special Education History

  • Dorothea Dix

    Dorothea Dix
    Dorothea Dix was an activist for mental illness. Her efforts brought about new institutions across the United States. Ms. Dix's work helped people better understand mental illness. Dorothea Dix was born in Hampden, Maine. She visited facilities around Massachusetts and reported the grave findings to the legislature of Massachusetts. This influenced change in many facilities. She died in 1887 at the age of 85.
  • Gallaudet University

    Gallaudet University
    Gallaudet University is a school that focuses on the education of the Deaf and hard of hearing. Gallaudet is a private co-ed institution. 95% of classes have less than 20 students. There is a 7:1 student to faculty ratio. Gallaudet University is 48% male and 52% female.
  • American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

    American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
    American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD) was started to advocate for individuals with intellectual disabilities. They use and inform others of progressive policies, effective practices, research, and universal human rights. One of AAIDD's goals is to strengthen professionals that work with people with disabilities.
  • The Arc

    The Arc
    The Arc started with a small group of concerned individuals and parents. They came together to push for a change. At that time little was known about intellectual disabilities. There were no activities or programs for people with intellectual disabilities. Arc aids by creating programs and spreading knowledge.
  • President's Panel

    President's Panel
    President Kennedy formed the President’s Panel on Mental Retardation. At the time all intellectual and developmental disabilities were referred to as mental retardation. This panel was created, because during Kennedy's time intellectual disabilities were not studied, understood, or funded well. Intellectual disabilities was a neglected topic. October 11 President Kennedy announced he would be creating a panel of outstanding professionals to make a plan of action for intellectual disabilities.
  • Elementary and Secondary Education Act

    Elementary and Secondary Education Act
    Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) was put in power in 1965. This law focused on getting equal educational opportunities for all students. During that time underprivileged children were not getting the same education as children that were better off. Elementary and Secondary Education Act was signed by Lyndon B. Johnson.
  • The Rehabilitation Act

    The Rehabilitation Act
    The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 was created to help stop discrimination against individuals with disabilities. This law also ensured civil rights to all individuals with disabilities. The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 also helped expand grants to states for vocational rehabilitation services, with a focus on individuals with severe disabilites. President Richard Nixon signed this law.
    Copy and paste the URL Below:
    What is the Rehabilitation Act of 1973?
    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00KVLYcmBOw
  • Education for All Handicapped Children Act

    Education for All Handicapped Children Act
    Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EHA) gave individuals with disabilities a right to an education. During this time in history people with disabilities were not allowed to go to school. This act stated individuals with disabilities should be placed in the least restrictive environment (LRE) to get the opportunity to interact with non-disabled peers. Education for All Handicapped Children Act also presented due process to resolve conflicts between parents and the school system.
  • Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

    Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
    The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) was created to ensure children with disabilities have access to a free appropriate public education (FAPE). IDEA regulates how public agencies and states administer special education, related, and early intervention services. The IDEA is composed of four parts, A-D. The IDEA gives parents an opportunity to be a participant in their child's education. The student must need special education services to be covered underneath IDEA.
  • No Child Left Behind Act

    No Child Left Behind Act
    No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) was put into law by President George W. Bush. This act was created due to the fear that the American education system was no longer internationally competitive. The No Child Left Behind Act strengthened federal's part in holding schools accountable for all student performance. For more information copy and paste the URL below:
    https://www.edweek.org/ew/section/multimedia/no-child-left-behind-overview-definition-summary.html