History of Special Education and Inclusive Education Timeline

The Anderson School

1924

In 1924 psychiatrist Victor Anderson founded to aid “troubled” youth. Upon some completion of research for Macy's department store, Anderson came to the conclusion that if worked on from a young age, troublesome adults would be less likely in the professional world. His school is one of the first we see working with children that have any sort of behavioral issues.
https://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/story/news/2019/03/26/anderson-school-founded-1924-aid-trouble-youth/3266774002/

The Arc

1950

Originally names The National Organization for Retarded Children, Arc was formed by parents of children with disabilities. This was the first organization formed to serve and aid children with disabilities. With changing times the organization changed its name to The Acr to ensure that the “R” word would not be used in a derogatory way in regards to the people they serve.

Brown vs. The Board of Education

1954

This was such a big moment in history for racial justice and the end to segregation. This win also was a segue into introducing the idea of also integrating students with special needs into the public school system. Following this event we start to see a lot of laws being passed for that process of integration to begin.

Pennsylvania Association of Retarded children v. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

1971

This was the first big legal case to fight for the right for free education for students with disabilities. After trial, those who need it were guaranteed special education for children with intellectual disabilities.

Vocational Rehabilitation Act

1973

This is when we start to see a clear definition for what the government saw as a handicapped person. Also this is the beginning of appropriate education for a child with disabilities. This also prohibited discrimination in federally funded programs

Education Amendments

1974

This declared state funding for students with disabilities and also students that are gifted and talented. This also established due process rights for children and families.

Education for All Handicapped Children Act

1975

This act now made funding for students with disabilities required. With this act children 5-18 must receive free and appropriate education. Also IEPs start to define “Least Restrictive Environment”.

Education of the Handicapped Act Amendments

1986

There is now an age extension including children 3-5. With this act children 3-5 can also receive free and appropriate education if they have a disability. This also established early intervention for infants and toddlers with disabilities.

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

1990

This replaces EAHCA. Expands services to include confidentiality for special education services. Also adds autism and traumatic brain as categories of disability. Lastly, this Act requires transition services and planning.

No Child Left Behind Act

2001

This increases accountability and flexibility in use of Federal funds in regards to special education. This also provided school choice options for students and family. And implemented early reading intervention.

Every Student Succeeds Act

2015

This act was signed and passed while President Obama was in office. Essentially this replaced the No Child Left Behind Act and shifted accountability from the federal government to the state government. This was to help motivate in making sure progress was more closely monitored.
https://youtu.be/i69cO5Ku_7Y