-
First school of Special Education
Established in Connecticut, called the Asylum for the Education and Instruction of Deaf and Dumb. Opened on April 15th, 1817, becoming the first school for the disabled. Now called the American School for the Deaf, this started a stepping stone of events to lead in a change for those with disabilities. -
Brown V Board of Education
Brown V. Board of Education was a remarkable moment in history. In 1954, the Supreme Court unanimously rules that racial segregation of students was unconstitutional. It proved that the “separate-but-equal” education system was truly not equal at all. This ruling will eventually create a federal law to help students with disabilities.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1siiQelPHbQ -
Elementary and Secondary Education Act
In 1963, the Elementary and Secondary Education Act was signed. This provided grants to low-income students and federal grands helped create special education centers, where those students were able to learn in a way that’s best for them. This act also helped address the challenges that students with disabilities face. -
Pennsylvania Association for Retarded Children v. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
In 1971, the Pennsylvania Association for Retarded Children sued the state of Pennsylvania on behalf of 14 students with disabilities, who were denied access to free public education. Following Brown V. Board of education, these students were allowed free public education. Testimony indicates that all mentally retarded persons can benefit from education and training. -
Mills V Board of Education of District of Columbia
A lawsuit was filed against the District of Columbia for failure to provide public supported training and education for exceptional children. In 1972. The court ruled that disabled students must be given a public education, even if they are unable to pay tuition costs. This opened up doors to support special education, and those with disabilities
https://law.justia.com/cases/federal/district-courts/FSupp/348/866/2010674/ -
Rehabilitation Act
Effective September 26, 1973, this act prohibits discrimination against an individual based on their disability. Organizations and employers are forbidden from excluding or denying individuals with disabilities an equal opportunity from receiving services, and benefits under Section 504. All qualified persons with disabilities within a school district, are entitled to a free appropriate public education -
The Education Act of all Handicapped Children Act
The Education for All Handicapped Children Act, was passed by congress in 1975. It helps support states and localities in protecting the rights of children, infants, and toddlers with disabilities and their families. This act had a dramatic and positive impact on special needs children, all across the country. -
Americans with Disabilities Act
The Americans with Disabilities Act protects the disabled in numerous areas. It prevents them from being discriminated in public locations, as well as while using transportation and in places of employment. For students with disabilities, this allows them to be in an educational environment and feel safe and equal to his/her peers. Schools with disabled students receive funding to better help those students. These students can learn among those who are not in need of special education -
Individuals with Disabilities Act
In 1997, the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) was enacted. This not only ensures students get a free appropriate education, but the parents can voice concerns, and speak up. They can make decisions they believe that works best for their child, including a least restrictive environment, where a student can learn beside his/her peers, who are not receiving Special Education. This law covers children from birth up until the age of 21, or high school graduation -
No Child Left Behind Act
The No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, was a law that affected every single public school in the US. This law assisted those who had disadvantages in their lives, such as non-English speakers, special education students, minorities, and those in poverty. This ensured that all students receive the same education, adjusted to them, so they can get a proper education, and not fall behind, and get lost in the system.
