History of Special Education and Inclusive Education Timeline

Department of public Welfare v. Haas

1958

A supreme court case which concluded that children with disabilities were not entitled to free education. The state of Illinois effectively excluded children with disabilities from equal education to able bodied and minded children.

Pennsylvania Association of Retarded Children v. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

1971

The state of Pennsylvania agreed to provide an equal education for children with mental disabilities as a ruling for this case. This lawsuit was filed in an attempt to overturn a previous law related to the education of disabled children.

Mills v. Board of Education of the District of Columbia

1972

the court ruled on this case that all children, despite disability where entitled to a free public education. The court specifically included the phrase "training appropriate to their learning capacities". This meaning that children with disabilities are taught in a way which is effective and best for them.

Vocational Rehabilitation Act

1973

This act prohibits discrimination based on disability in federally funded programs, such as financial assistance.

P.L. 94-142

1975

The Education For All Handicapped Children Act was enacted in 1975. This act requires federally funded schools to provide equal educational opportunities to children with disabilities.

Education of the Handicapped Act Amendments

1986

This establishes free early intervention for children with disabilities ages 0-2. Website Link: https://www.nfb.org/sites/www.nfb.org/files/images/nfb/publications/fr/fr9/issue3/f090308.html

Honig v. Doe

1988

This case pertains to a 21 year old who was suspended for negative behavior which was deemed a part of his disability. Justice William Brennan ruled that schools could not expel students for things they cannot control due to their disability.

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

1990

This act was formerly known as the "Education for All Handicapped Children Act". This ensures that disabled children receive an education that is specific to their case. This Act was also amended in 1997 and 2004.

Cedar Rapids v. Garret F.

Mar 3, 1999

This case ruled that the original 'Individuals with Disabilities Education Act' Included that students have appropriate and needed nursing care while attending school. It ruled that these services were required for certain children to be able to attend school.

No Child Left Behind Act

2001

Link: https://youtu.be/0--2nhsDorg
This act is intended to help close the gap in student achievement by enacting federal education programs. It focusses on accountability and flexibility, to ensure no child is left behind.