Timeline: History of Special Education

Jan 1, 1773

First hospital opened for people with mental disabilities.

Legislative Moment in Virginia History

Jan 1, 1896

First Special Class

First special class was created in Rhode Island, United States.

Jan 1, 1905

First Intelligence Scale Created

This test was created by Alfred Binet to determine if a child was "slow" or "retarded".

Jan 1, 1923

34,000 student swere enrolled in special education classes

Approximately 34, 000 people with disabilities were enrolled in special education classes.

Jan 1, 1933

First President Elected with a Physical Disability

President Franklin D. Roosevelt was the first president elected with a physical disability. (Polio)

May 17, 1970

Parent Advocacy

Parents advocated for public education for their children with disabilities.

May 17, 1972

First Center for Independent Living

First center that supported people in their journey to independence.

Jan 1, 1973

Section 504 of Vocational Rehabilitation Act

Prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in programs conducted by Federal agencies, in programs receiving Federal financial assistance, in Federal employment, and in the employment practices of Federal contractors

Jan 1, 1975

Education of All Handicapped Children Act

This act required all public schools accepting federal funds to provide equal access to education for children with physical and mental disabilities.

Jan 1, 1990

Americans with Disabilities Act

ADA is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on a disability.

May 17, 1990

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is a United States federal law that governs how states and public agencies provide early intervention, special education, and related services to children with disabilities. It addresses the educational needs of children with disabilities from birth to age 18 or 21[1][2] in cases that involve 13 specified categories of disability.