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American School for the Deaf
The American School for the Deaf was first school in the Western Hemisphere for disabled children. It was founded in Hartford, Connecticut. The school is still around today for the academic school year 2021-2022. -
Opening of Perkins Institution for the Blind
Although it was founded in Boston, Massachusetts in 1829, the school did not open until 1832. This was the first school for blind students. The students that wanted to study here were required to live on campus like a boarding school. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9D8D68RRHo8 -
Law Mandating Compulsory Education
Rhode Island passed a state law mandating compulsory education to all students. Compulsory education means children are required by law to receive education and for the government to provide it. This meant that even students with disabilities were able to receive education provided by the government. -
Beattie v. Board of Education
Special needs student was expelled due to facial abnormalities and drooling. The other students and a few teachers said the student’s condition would “nauseate” them. This case went before the Wisconsin Supreme Court and the court had ruled that the child could be excluded. -
Least Restrictive Environment
Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) means that students with disabilities have an IEP and must be placed in as many regular classes as possible. This was to ensure that the students with disabilities were able to have a social experience. Aids are required to be present in the classroom to assist the student with disabilities. -
Handicapped Children’s Protection Act
This was a law in which parents of children with disabilities had more say in the development of their child’s Individual Education Plan (IEP). It was signed by Ronald Regan who was president at the time. -
Americans with Disability Act
The act stated that people with special needs would receive the same rights as everyone else, this included work and school. This meant that people with special needs could not be discriminated against in the workplace, school, or even everyday society. The act was signed by George W. Bush. -
IDEA
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act was signed into law by president at the time George W. Bush. The law included 4 sections and 6 pillars. The pillars were FAPE, LRE, IEP, evaluation, parent/student participation, and all procedural safeguards for participants. -
IDEA Reauthorized
IDEA was reauthorized along with changes being made to the original. The change included IEP, due process, and student discipline. -
Autism Speaks was founded
Autism Speaks was founded by Suzanne and Bob Wright in New York. They were inspired to start the organization when their grandson was diagnosed with autism. They help raise funding for science, advocacy, and extensive family services that can enhance lives now and in the future. https://www.autismspeaks.org