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American School for the Deaf
The American School for the Deaf was founded on April 15, 1817, located in Hartford, Connecticut. It became the first permanent school for the deaf in the United States. This school is known to be a nationwide leader in offering extensive educational services and programs to deaf and hard-of-hearing students. -
Perkins School for the Blind
Perkins School for the Blind was founded on March 2, 1829, and is located in Boston, Massachusetts. This school is the first school for the blind in the United States. The founders of this school were devoted to providing education, literacy and independence for people who are blind, visually impaired and deafblind. More Information on Perkins School for the Blind -
Brown v. Board of Education
Brown v. Board of Education was a very famous Supreme Court decision that was issued on May 17, 1954. The Supreme Court declared that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional. Although this court case is not specifically related to special education, the decision sets a precedent for equal access to education for all students. Brown v. Board of Education Explained -
Passage of ESEA
The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) was to strengthen and improve educational quality and educational opportunities in the Nation's elementary and secondary schools. This has been amended to the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) which emphasizes equality by upholding protection for disadvantaged and special-needs students. -
Section 504
The Rehabilitation Act (Section 504) was enacted on April 28, 1983. This act prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in programs that receive federal funds. -
Passage of EAHCA
The Education for All Handicapped Children Act was passed in 1975. The purpose of this act was to provide equal access to education and a free meal to all students with special needs. This act also designed the Individual Education Plans (IEPs) -
Irving v. Tatro
The Irving Independent School District v. Tatro was a very important Supreme Court decision for students with special needs. This decision stated that under the EAHCA, the school board needed to provide catheterization services to a student who had Spina Bifida. This decision is very important because it defines the difference between "School Health Services" and "Medical Services." -
ADA
The Americans with Disabilities Act was passed on January 17, 1990. This act protects people with disabilities from discrimination in different areas. These areas can include employment, public services, education, and others. -
IDEA
Formerly known as the EAHCA, the act was revised and renamed to the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA). The purpose of this act is to ensure that students with disabilities receive appropriate education. This is done by having certain requirements for school districts and other local educational agencies. -
IDEIA
The IDEA was reauthorized and renamed to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act. IDEIA is a federal law that makes sure disabled students receive special education and services to meet their special needs. The act also emphasizes providing a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment possible for students with disabilities.