History of Special Education

By jenkybrie

  • First Professional Association

    The first professional association was organized by Edouard Seguin. It was concerned with disabilities (mental retardation), and was the predecessor to today's’ American Association on Mental Retardation.

  • National Education Association

    National Education Association establishes a section for teachers of children with disabilities. This association is still active today and provides special education teachers with resources and news regarding the field of special education.

  • Council for Exceptional Children

    Organization that is now known as the Council for Exceptional Children in founded in New York. The CEC is one of the largest professional organizations that is dedicated to children and adults with disabilities in regards to their academic successes.

  • The First Compulsory Law

    First Compulsory law for testing the hearing of school aged children is enacted in New York.

  • Association

    Association for Children with Disabilities is organized. This association is still very much present today. They provide families of a child/adult with a disability support, resources, and advocacy.

  • Public Law

    Public Law 93-112, the Vocational Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is enacted; section 504 prohibits discrimination against individuals
    with disabilities.

  • Handicapped Children Act

    Education for all Handicapped Children Act (PL 94-142) is passed:
    landmark legislation ensures, among other provisions, a free and appropriate education for all children with disabilities. In simple terms, this law enables all children regardless of disability, the same education as their peers.

  • Education of the Handicapped Act

    Education of the Handicapped Act Amendments of 1986 is
    enacted; mandates a SPED for preschoolers with disabilities.

  • Individuals with Disabilities Act

    PL 10-476, the Individuals with Disabilities Act is passed; among
    other provisions; emphasizes transition planning for adolescents
    with disabilities.

  • IDEA

    IDEA is reauthorized; providing major retooling and expansion of
    services for students with disabilities and their families. IDEA offers resources, important information for families and educators.

  • No Child Left Behind

    No Child Left Behind : all students including those with disabilities, should be proficient in math and reading by 2014.