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In the 19th century, individuals with disabilities were often excluded from mainstream education and society. Many were institutionalized or received no formal education. Society's perception of disability during this period was marked by misunderstanding and discrimination. https://actionforaccess.mohistory.org/early_movement.php#:~:text=During%20the%201800s%20institutions%20opened,entirety%20of%20the%20person's%20life.
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During the early 20th century, schools specifically designed for students with disabilities emerged. These schools aimed to provide specialized education, but they often perpetuated the segregation of students with disabilities from their non-disabled peers.
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The landmark Supreme Court case declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional. Although not directly related to special education, this case laid the groundwork for challenges to the segregation of students with disabilities in education. https://africanamericanheritagesites.stqry.app/en/story/44329
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The Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s paved the way for advancements in special education. The Education for All Handicapped Children Act (later renamed the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act or IDEA) was passed in 1975, ensuring access to free and appropriate public education for children with disabilities. https://www.thedailybeast.com/hillary-clinton-shatters-americas-240-year-old-glass-ceiling
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The concept of mainstreaming, or integrating students with disabilities into general education classrooms, gained traction. This approach aimed to promote inclusivity and provide necessary support within regular school environments.
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The ADA extended civil rights protection to individuals with disabilities, prohibiting discrimination in various aspects of public life, including education. This legislation complemented the IDEA and reinforced the importance of equal access. https://my.converse.edu/ICS/CRM_Student/Student_Life/Student_Accessibility_Services.jnz?portlet=Documentation_Guidelines_Handouts
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The IDEA mandated the creation of Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for students with disabilities. IEPs are personalized plans that outline the educational goals and support services required for each student. https://specialednews.com/the-history-of-the-iep/
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The RTI model emerged as an early identification and intervention approach for students struggling with learning or behavior. It emphasizes a tiered system of support that provides increasingly intensive interventions based on individual needs. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3137487/
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Technological advances led to the development of various assistive technologies, such as communication devices and adaptive software, enhancing the learning experience for students with disabilities. https://www.ldatschool.ca/assistive-technology/
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Efforts to ensure Inclusion, equity, and accessibility in education for students with disabilities continue. Ongoing advocacy seeks to improve support systems, dismantle barriers, and promote a more inclusive educational environment. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554622/