History of Special Education and Inclusive Education

By sdelc013@fiu.edu

  • First Permanent Deaf School

    First Permanent Deaf School
    Thomas H. Gallaudet opened America’s first permanent school for those who were deaf in 1817. The school was located in Hartford, Connecticut and was called “The American School for the Deaf.” The school’s opening on the 15th of April marked the beginning of America’s efforts to educate those with disabilities. History of "The American School for the Deaf

  • First Special Education Class in a Public School

    First Special Education Class in a Public School
    The first special education class in an American public school was opened in Rhode Island in 1896. The creation of the specific class was due to teachers noticing that many of their students had learning disabilities. By 1923, almost 34,000 students were enrolled in special education classes.

  • Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)

    Council for Exceptional Children (CEC)
    The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) was established in 1922. 12 students attending a summer session at the Teachers College of Colombia University came together to create a place where others could be educated on special education. It also served as an outlet for people to share their ideas on how to aid those in need of special education. The CEC also helps professional working in special education obtain the resources that they need. CEC

  • Education for all Handicapped Children Act (EHA)

    Education for all Handicapped Children Act (EHA)
    The Education for all Handicapped Children Act (EHA) was passed by congress in 1975. The law guarantees that public schools are providing equal access to appropriate and free education in the least restrictive environment possible for children with disabilities. The law also requires that schools evaluate a child’s special needs and develops an individualized education program (IEP).

  • Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

    Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
    The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) was established in 1990 after the Education for all Handicapped Children Act was amended. IDEA supported the involvement of parents in the educational decisions being made for their children with disabilities. It also required parental approval of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) being created for their child.