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American School for the Deaf is established
American Educator, Thomas H. Gallaudet, traveled to Europe to expand his understanding on the best ways to teach deaf children. In 1817, Gallaudet returned to America and founded the Connecticut Asylum for the Education and Instruction of Deaf and Dumb Persons- which has since discarded that name and is now referred to as the American School for the Deaf. This was the first introduction to English Sign/ ASL in an American School curriculum. -
Parc v. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Executive Director of P.A.R.C fought on behalf of 14 children with developmental disabilities who were denied a free public education in Pennsylvania in accordance to State Law. The Director, Dr. Gilhool argued that this was a direct violation of Due Process and Equal protection clause under the 14th Amendment. In conclusion, the court determined that it was Commonwealth's responsibility to place each developmentally disabled child in free public education. -
Mills v. Board of Education of District of Columbia
Now known as Mills, this court case fought for the right of seven children who were denied admission to the school because they were disabled and the school would have to spend too much money on their accommodations. The Judge ruled in favor of the children as a direct result of the lack of due process from the school. This led a legislative change that protects the rights of students with disabilities to have a free public education no matter the extra costs. -
Rehabilitation Act of 1973
As demonstrated by the picture, this is a federal law that prohibits discrimination involving people with disabilities and adversities specifically regarding employment. Before, 1973, employers were able to reject job applicants with handicaps and other disabilities. In accordance to section 504 of the Act, this only involves programs or companies that are federally funded. Here's how this Act is affecting people right now: Timetoast -
Education for All Handicapped Children Act (Public Law 94-142)
Signed into law by President Gerald Ford, the EHA (also known as P.L 94-142) guaranteed free public education for every student with a disability. This Act forbade any singular state or city government to withhold appropriate education from any student with mental, physical, or emotional disabilities. Part of the EHA was to have schools evaluate their children and set up specialized programs for them. -
Board of Education of the Hendrick Hudson Central School District v. Rowley
This act requires the importance of an individual IEP for each child with disabilities in a classroom. It also requires free, appropriate public education with all support services and benefits included. -
Honig v. Doe
Click to view video: Timetoast
The Case Honig v. Doe focuses on a boy referred to as "John Doe" who was suspended by his school as a result of violent outbursts that are associated with his disability. The Court enforced that schools must provide services to children with emotional and behavioral disabilities. -
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
The ADA was passed as a definite amendment and public law to protect the rights of Americans with Disabilities. Congress found that no physical or mental disability diminishes a person's right to participate in school. The ADA's goal from 1990 up to this day is to provide more equal opportunity and economic self-sufficiency. -
Cedar Rapids Community School District v. Garret F.
This case focuses on a young boy from Iowa whose spinal column was ruptured in an accident when he was 4. Because of his disability, he required a ventilator with him during the school day- which his parents thought the school should pay for. The school disagreed and the case went through federal trial court who sided with the school, and then turned to the Eighth Circuit Court. There the judge ruled in favor of Garret and enforced funding for related services to guarantee appropriate schooling. -
No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB)
Click here to get more information on the NCLB as it happened during George W. Bush's Presidency: https://georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov/infocus/bushrecord/factsheets/No-Child-Left-Behind.html
The No Child Left Behind Act focused on the importance of schools providing services and curriculums for learners with adversities: ELL, children with disabilities, from low income families, and more. It states that all students must be tested in grades 3-8 where they must meet yearly proficiency. -
IDEA Changes
There were many changes added to IDEA or now known as IDEIA since it was first enacted. Most recently, George W. Bush signed into law expectations geared towards teachers specifically. Schools must provide high quality, intensive preparation for the teachers prior to the school year. This is protocol for any child with a disability to be assured an appropriate and high quality level of education. This was all teachers have the skills and knowledge to adjust their curriculum.