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400 BCE
Ancient Roots
Ancient Greek philosopher Hippocrates theorized about disabilities being natural, not supernatural, but society often excluded individuals with disabilities. -
The First School for the Blind
Valentin Hauy founded the first school for blind students in Paris, pioneering formal education for people with visual impairements. -
Death Education
Thomas Gallaudet established the American School for the Deaf in Hartford, Conneticut. He introduced sign language as a critical tool for teaching deaf students, setting a precedent for formal education that empowered individuals with hearing impairments. -
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Segregation in Special Education
Children with disabilities in the 1900s were often segregated from their peers in seperate classrooms for institutions. Special education was seen as a service for individuals with disabilities, but their non-disabled peers, limiting social interactions and academic integration. This era of segregation sparked increasing advocacy for inclusion and equal educational opportunities, laying the foundation for the push toward inclusive education in later decades. -
Brown V. Board of Education
The U.S Supreme Court ruiling in Brown V. Board of Education declared that segergation in schools was unconstitutional. Though primarily focused on racial segergation, this case inspired advocates for individuals with disabilities to fight for equal educational opportunities, laying the groundwork for future special education reforms. -
Education for All Handicapped Children Act
The All Handicapped children Act mandated that all children, regardelss of disabilities, had the rifht to free and appropriate public education. This law introduced individualized eucation plans ensuring tailored support for every student with special needs. -
No Child Left Behind Act
The No Child Left Behind emphasized accountability in education by requiring schools to ensure all students, including those with disabilities, showed measurable academic progress. This act promoted inclusion and highlighted the need for equitable teaching practices and resources. -
Every Student Succeeds Act
This Act offers more flexibility to schools while maintaining a commitment to equitable education for students with disabilities. The act supports personalized learning, universal design, and adaptive technologies, reflecting a modern apprach to inclusion. -
