-
Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet and Laurent Clerc founded the first school for deaf children in Hartford, Connecticut. This school introduced structured education for students with hearing impairments and emphasized communication and individualized instructionhttps://gallaudet.edu/museum/exhibits/history-through-deaf-eyes/formation-of-a-community/a-place-of-our-own-the-first-permanent-school-for-deaf-children/
-
Samuel Gridley Howe established the first school for blind children in Boston. The school provided specialized instruction and adaptive materials, creating early models for educating students with visual disabilities. https://www.nps.gov/people/samuel-gridley-howe.htm
-
The Supreme Court declared segregation in public schools unconstitutional. While focused on racial equality, this decision influenced equal access to education for all students, including those with disabilities, laying groundwork for inclusion. -
ESEA provided federal funding to schools serving disadvantaged students. This funding helped support students with disabilities, giving schools resources to include them in general education classrooms. -
Section 504 prohibited discrimination against individuals with disabilities in federally funded programs. Schools had to provide accommodations to ensure students with disabilities could access education alongside their peers.
-
This law guaranteed a free, appropriate public education (FAPE) to all children with disabilities. It required Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and emphasized educating students in the least restrictive environment. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=66g6TbJbs2g -
This act strengthened parents’ rights to advocate for their children in schools. Families could pursue legal action if schools failed to provide required services, supporting accountability in special education.https://www.reaganlibrary.gov/archives/speech/statement-signing-handicapped-childrens-protection-act-1986?utm_source
-
IDEA expanded the 1975 law, requiring IEPs, transition planning, and education in the least restrictive environment. It reinforced the rights of students with disabilities to participate in general education programs.
https://sites.ed.gov/idea/ -
These amendments emphasized inclusion and early intervention. Schools were encouraged to integrate students with disabilities into general education classrooms and ensure collaboration between general and special educators. -
Reauthorization focused on accountability, research-based instruction, and student performance standards. It strengthened the connection between special and general education to improve outcomes for students with disabilities