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The American School for the Deaf opened in Hartford, Connecticut, as the first permanent school for deaf students in the U.S. Thomas Gallaudet and Laurent Clerc founded the school, providing formal education for deaf children. This milestone began the movement for organized special education in America. It demonstrated the need and value for specialized instruction and a supportive community. -
Gallaudet University was established in Washington, D.C., by an act of Congress signed by President Lincoln. It became the only higher education institution in the world designed specifically for deaf and hard-of-hearing students. The university played a key role in advancing rights and opportunities for the deaf community. Its creation inspired advocacy and higher learning for people with disabilities. -
Educators founded the Council for Exceptional Children to improve education for students with disabilities. The CEC set standards for special education and advocated for policy changes at local and national levels. It provides professional development and resources to teachers and families. The organization has shaped best practices in inclusive and special education for over a century. exceptionalchildren.org -
The Supreme Court ruled that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional, declaring “separate is not equal.” This case set a legal precedent for equal educational access. It paved the way for future laws requiring inclusion of students with disabilities. The decision highlighted the importance of integrating all students into general education settings. -
In this case, the court established the right of children with intellectual disabilities to a free public education in Pennsylvania. Previously, many students with disabilities were excluded from schools. The ruling became a model for future lawsuits and legislation across the country. It marked a turning point toward educational rights for all children. -
Section 504 was the first major federal law to ban discrimination against individuals with disabilities. It required schools receiving federal funds to provide equal access and accommodations. The law set important protections for students with disabilities in education. It became a foundation for later civil rights and educational reforms. -
PL 94-142 - This groundbreaking law required all public schools to provide free, appropriate public education to children with disabilities. It introduced the principle of the least restrictive environment, supporting inclusion in general classrooms. The law later became known as IDEA. It set the standard for special education services in the United States. -
The ADA is a comprehensive civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability in all public spaces, including schools. It guarantees accessibility and accommodations in education and employment. The act expanded protections for millions of Americans. It remains a cornerstone for disability rights and inclusion efforts. Americans with Disabilities Act -
The 1997 IDEA reauthorization strengthened requirements for including students with disabilities in general education classrooms. It required schools to offer access to the general curriculum and participate in state assessments. The law further defined the meaning of “least restrictive environment.” It advanced the movement toward full inclusion of all learners. -
IDEIA updated and improved previous special education law, focusing on accountability and early intervention. It required schools to use research-based instruction and monitor student progress. The act reinforced the rights of students to individualized and inclusive education. It ensures ongoing support for students with disabilities and their families.