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The American School for the Deaf (ASD) was founded in Hartford, Connecticut. This was the first permanent school for children with hearing impairments in the U.S. The school proved that children with disabilities could learn successfully with proper instruction. Its creation marked the beginning of formal special education in America. -
A group of educators led by Elizabeth Farrell created the CEC to improve education for students with disabilities. The organization promoted professional standards, teacher preparation, and advocacy. To this day, it still remains one of the most influential groups in special education. -
Although this case was focused on racial segregation, the ruling established that separate education is unequal. Disability advocates later used this principle for access to public education, setting legal foundations for inclusive schooling. https://youtu.be/TTGHLdr-iak?si=pBO-T8e2tffRUq0h -
ESSA provided the first major federal funding for public education, including funds that later support special education programs. It recognized disparities for students with disabilities. This act set the stage for future laws specific to education for students with disabilities. -
The court ruled that children with intellectual disabilities could not be denied a public education. This decision required schools to provide free education tailored to these students' needs. -
The Mills case established that all students with disabilities are entitled to education, regardless of the cost. It emphasized the rights for due process for families. The ruling reinforced that exclusion based on disability was illegal. -
Section 504 outlawed discrimination against individuals with disabilities in any program receiving federal funds. It required schools to provide accommodations to ensure equal access to learning. This act was one of the first major civil rights protections for people with disabilities. https://www.wrightslaw.com/info/sec504.index.htm -
EAHCA guaranteed Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) for all children with disabilities, Schools were required to develop Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and educate students in the least restrictive environment (LRE). This marked the beginning of modern special education rights -
The ADA extended civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities in public spaces, employment, and transportation. It required reasonable accommodations to ensure accessibility. -
The reauthorization of IDEA updated access to general education curriculum. it increased parent involvement and accountability for student progress. Schools were required to include students with disabilities in statewide assessments. This update strengthened expectations that students learn alongside peers and participate in statewide assessments, it was a direct push towards inclusive classrooms. -
NCLB required annual testing and accountability measures for all students, using standardized testing, including students with disabilities. It pushed schools to ensure progress for every subgroup and increased the pressure for inclusive instruction and data-based decisions. -
ESSA replaced the No Child Left Behind Act and shifted more decision making power back to states and school districts. The law continued to require accountability measures for students with disabilities while allowing states to design their own systems for measuring progress. ESSA also emphasized access to evidence-based instruction, inclusive learning environments, and coordinated supports to help all learners succeed.