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American School for the Deaf
American School for the Deaf, located in Hartford, Connecticut, was the first permanent school for the deaf in the United States. Founded by Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet and Laurent Clerc, it played a pivotal role in the development of American Sign Language and deaf education. -
Perkins School for the Blind
Perkins School for the Blind was established in 1832 by Dr. Samuel Gridley Howe. Situated in Watertown, MA, Perkins became the nation's inaugural school dedicated to providing comprehensive education and support for individuals with visual impairments. Perkins pioneered innovative teaching methodologies, including tactile learning techniques and braille, to help students to overcome barriers to learning. -
Council for Exceptional Children
The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) is a professional organization dedicated to improving the educational success of individuals with disabilities. It provides resources, advocacy, and support for educators and professionals working in special education. -
Brown v. Board of Education
The landmark Supreme Court case ruled that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional, laying the groundwork for desegregation efforts in education. While not specific to special education, this decision had significant implications for the rights of all students to access equal educational opportunities. -
Formation of Special Olympics
Special Olympics is a global sports organization that provides year-round athletic training and competitions for individuals with intellectual disabilities. Founded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, it promotes inclusion, acceptance, and empowerment through sports. Become a Special Olympics Athlete -
Passage of Section 504
Section 504 prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in programs receiving federal financial assistance. It mandates reasonable accommodations and accessibility in education, employment, and other areas to ensure equal opportunities for people with disabilities. -
The EHA is Signed
Also known as Public Law 94-142, this federal law mandated a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) for all children with disabilities. It required schools to provide specialized instruction and services to meet the unique needs of students with disabilities. -
Ratification of ADA
ADA is a comprehensive civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including employment, transportation, and education. It mandates accessibility and reasonable accommodations to ensure full participation and equal opportunities for people with disabilities. -
Establishment of IDEA
IDEA is a federal law that governs special education services for children with disabilities. It ensures that eligible students receive an individualized education program (IEP) tailored to their specific needs and guarantees parental involvement in the education process. -
Introduction of RTI Model
RTI is a multi-tiered approach to early identification and support for students with learning and behavioral needs. It focuses on providing interventions at increasing levels of intensity based on student response, with the goal of preventing academic failure and addressing barriers to learning.
Response to Intervention Video