Special Education Timeline

  • Sam Gridly Howe founded Perkin Institution

    Physician, Sam Gridley Howe, championed early educational reform. Howe revolutionized blind education in 1829 by building the Perkins Institution. Successful educational programs for deaf and blind persons inspired study and applications for other impairments.
  • Creation of the American Association on Mental Deficiency (AAMD)

    The American Association on Mental Deficiency, which is now called the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities, was established to enhance comprehension and assistance for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This has resulted in cooperative initiatives and progress in the field of special education.
  • Foundation of the Council for Exceptional Children

    The Council for Exceptional Children, established in the United States, sought to promote the education and well-being of children with exceptionalities. This group was crucial in championing the rights and requirements of students with disabilities, advancing research, and offering chances for professional growth.
  • Formation of the World Federation of the Deaf

    The World Federation of the Deaf was established with the purpose of advocating for the rights and well-being of those who have hearing impairments. The group has been instrumental in enhancing sign language recognition, enhancing educational possibilities, and fostering the cultural identity of the deaf population.
  • Brown vs. Board of Education

    The historic Supreme Court decision Brown v. Board of Education declared that the practice of racial segregation in public schools was in violation of the Constitution. This ruling has profound ramifications for special education since it established a legal precedent for contesting discriminatory practices against children with disabilities.
  • Creation of Learning Disabilities Association of America

    The primary purpose of the Learning difficulties Association of America is to provide assistance and promote the educational requirements of persons with learning difficulties. This group had a substantial impact in increasing awareness, offering resources, and advocating for better teaching methods for individuals with unique learning difficulties.
  • Formation of Autism Society of America

    The Autism Society of America was established with the objective of enhancing the quality of life for those diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders and their families. This group has played a crucial role in championing the rights and requirements of persons with autism, facilitating research endeavors, and fostering public awareness.
  • Start of the Special Olympics

    The first international games of the Special Olympics, established by Eunice Kennedy Shriver, took place in Chicago. This event emphasized the significance of inclusive sports and recreational activities for those with intellectual impairments, fostering social integration and dismantling obstacles.
  • Mills vs. the Board of the District of Columbia

    The court's ruling in Mills v. Board of Education of the District of Columbia established that children with disabilities are entitled to a free and suitable education provided by the public, irrespective of the extent of their handicap. This ruling greatly strengthened the entitlements of students with disabilities in obtaining high-quality education.
  • Creation of Association for Behavioral Analysis International

    The Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) was established with a specific emphasis on using behavioral concepts to meet the requirements of persons with disabilities. ABAI has been instrumental in advancing evidence-based solutions and advocating for best practices in the field of special education.
  • Inception of National Association for Down syndrome (NADS)

    The National Association for Down Syndrome (NADS) was established with the purpose of providing assistance and aid to persons with Down syndrome as well as their families. NADS has been instrumental in advocating, educating, and increasing awareness about Down syndrome, leading to enhanced educational opportunities and more community inclusion.
  • Inception of the American with Disabilities Act (ADA)

    The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was established to prohibit discrimination against persons with disabilities in several domains of public life, such as employment, transportation, and public accommodations. ADA has greatly influenced the promotion of inclusive practices and accessibility in education.
  • Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

    The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) was enacted, renewing and broadening the rights and safeguards previously provided by the Education for All Handicapped Children Act. IDEA highlighted the significance of personalized education programs, parental engagement, and inclusive approaches.
  • Olmstead vs. L.C.

    In the case of Olmstead v. L.C., the Supreme Court determined that it is a violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act to unjustifiably separate persons with disabilities in facilities. This ruling underscored the need of community-based services and easily accessible housing for those with impairments.
  • The No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB)

    The No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB), which renewed the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA), has the goal of enhancing educational achievements for all children, including those with disabilities. The NCLB legislation established clear benchmarks, mechanisms for holding schools accountable, and expanded options for selecting schools.