History of Special Education and Inclusive Education

  • Jan 1, 1866. Civil Rights Act

    Jan 1, 1866. Civil Rights Act

    This event created the foundation for human rights and equality in the United States. It was the first federal law to delineate citizenship. Declares that all person born in the United States are citizens. Provides protection against illegal discrimination of individuals basis of race, color, or previous condition of slavery.
  • May 17, 1954. Brown vs. Board of Education of Topeka

    May 17, 1954. Brown vs. Board of Education of Topeka

    This case led to school desegregation in the United States. The U.S. Supreme Court decided that it was unconstitutional for educational institutions to segregate children by race. This landmark set the path for the future legislation of special education.
  • April 9, 1965. The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA)

    April 9, 1965. The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA)

    President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the ESEA as part of a battle against poverty. ESEA called for equal access to education for all students. Additionally, initiated federal funding for students living in disadvantage providing high-quality education, free and reduced lunches, and additional support. A critical component of the ESEA was the grant program states to create and improve programs for students with disabilities(Vaughn, Bos,& Schumm 2018). https://youtu.be/4okt6u6OEkg
  • September 26,1973. Vocational Rehabilitation Act (VRA)

    September 26,1973. Vocational Rehabilitation Act (VRA)

    It identifies and defines individuals with disabilities. Prohibit children with disabilities being excluded from federal funded programs and public education. Additionally, defines appropriate education for children with disabilities. https://www.nad.org/resources/civil-rights-laws/rehabilitation-act-of-1973/
  • November 29, 1975. Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EAHCA)

    November 29, 1975. Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EAHCA)

    President Gerald Ford signed the Education for All Handicapped Children Act, also known as Public Law 94-142. This law requires all states receiving federal funds to provide equal access to education for children with disabilities. An individualized education program(IEP) must be written, implemented and reviewed. Students with disabilities are placed in least restrictive environments to meet child's needs.
  • October 8, 1976. Public Law 99-457

    October 8, 1976. Public Law 99-457

    Public Law 99-457 was an amendment to the All Handicapped Children Act. Established early intervention to individual providing services to families of children born with disabilities from the time they are born. Previously, these services were only available until a child reached the age of three.
  • August 6, 1986. Handicapped Children’s Protection Act

    August 6, 1986. Handicapped Children’s Protection Act

    The Handicapped Children’s Protection Act was signed by President Reagan. This law gave parents of children with disabilities the opportunity to participate in their child’s Individual Education Plan (IEP). Requires states to provide free and appropriate education for young children with disabilities(3-5 years). Early intervention programs were established for infants and toddlers.
  • July 26, 1990. American with Disabilities Act (ADA)

    July 26, 1990. American with Disabilities Act (ADA)

    Prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities. Provides equal opportunities for people with disabilities to participate in the mainstream of American life. For instance, have same employment opportunities, and to participate in State and local government programs and services.
  • July 26,1990. Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

    July 26,1990. Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

    It is a law that makes accessible free and appropriate public education to eligible children with disabilities nationally. IDEA governs how states and public agencies provide early intervention, special education, and related services (U.S Department of Education).Infants and toddlers (0-2 years) with a disability and their families receive early intervention services under IDEA Part C. Children ages 3 through 21 receive special education and related services under IDEA Part B.
  • Jan 1, 2001 No Child Left Behind (NCLB)

    Jan 1, 2001 No Child Left Behind (NCLB)

    The law is a reauthorization of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA). It authorizes states to administrate federal education programs. NCLB requires each state to establish state academic standards and a state testing system that meet federal requirements (U.S. Department of Education on August 6, 2008). https://youtu.be/0--2nhsDorg