History of Special Education and Inclusive Education

First Special Education Classes

1900

The first special education classes for children with disabilities began in the U.S. This event marked the establishment of structured educational support for these students.

Brown v. Board of Education

May 17, 1954

The U.S. Supreme Court declared that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional expressing that "separate educational facilities are inherently unequal." This ruling overturned the previous "separate but equal" doctrine and was a critical moment in the fight for civil rights.

Mills vs. Board Of Education

Apr 21, 1972

This landmark court case mandated that the District of Columbia must provide a free and suitable public education to all children with disabilities. It established the example that educational services must be provided to students with disabilities, significantly advancing their educational rights.

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act

Sep 26, 1973

This groundbreaking civil rights law prohibited discrimination against individuals with disabilities in programs and activities that receive federal financial assistance.

Education for All Handicapped Children Act

Nov 29, 1975

This landmark legislation now known as IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) ensured that all children with disabilities had the right to a free and satisfactory public education.

Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EAHCA) Amendments

Oct 8, 1986

The EAHCA was amended to extend services to preschool-aged children with disabilities and introduced the requirement for individualized education programs (IEPs) for all students with disabilities, further promoting tailored educational support. It is important to note that we still use IEPs in today's education system.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Jul 26, 1990

This landmark civil rights legislation prohibited discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life including employment, transportation, public accommodations, and telecommunications. It ensured that people with disabilities have equal opportunities and could participate in society.

No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB)

Jan 8, 2002

NCLB was signed into law, aiming to improve educational outcomes for all students, including those with disabilities, by setting high standards and holding schools accountable for academic progress through regular testing and performance scale. https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&rct=j&opi=89978449&url=https://www2.ed.gov/nclb/landing.jhtml&ved=2ahUKEwiKhOeQqqOIAxUoq4kEHYbRAYgQFnoECBUQAQ&usg=AOvVaw082x6gOeOwIedRMrLnYkBt

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Amendments

Dec 3, 2004

These amendments to IDEA introduced significant changes aimed at improving educational outcomes for students with disabilities. The 2004 reauthorization emphasized accountability by requiring schools to display the effectiveness of special education services and make sure that students with disabilities made progress.

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)

Dec 10, 2015

This act replaced the "No Child Left Behind Act." It emphasized accountability and aimed to ensure that all students, including those with disabilities, achieve academic success. ESSA shifts some control from the federal government to states and local districts, giving them more flexibility in designing their education systems while maintaining rigorous standards and assessments.