-
Rosseau wrote a treatise on the nature of education and the nature of people which set the foundation for many educators. He established that children should be educated in agreement with their cognitive speed and minimal environmental stimuli. He argues that children can fulfill their natural potential through the practice of education. -
In Hartford, Connecticut, Thomas Gallaudet created the first school for deaf people, which is now called American School for the Deaf. The same year it was established, the federal government awarded the school 23,000 acres of land in Alabama to expand their education throughout the nation. This school was a pivotal model for education of deaf people and encouraged the establishment of several state-operated residential schools for the deaf. -
Elizabeth Farrell founded the CEC with a group of educators who were determined to advance the education of children with disabilities. At this time, there was very little understanding about people with disabilities and their need for education. Therefore, this council was dedicated to understand specialized needs and improve educational opportunities for children through advocacy, research, and professional development.
(https://youtu.be/XoZC1vN2OSk?si=_AC6kJxgvFh-zNg1) -
This crucial Supreme Court case established that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional, overturning the previous belief of “separate but equal.” It was a significant step for the Civil Rights Movement as it continued desegregation efforts around the nation. However, it is also a step toward inclusive education for all children, including those with disabilities. This victory brought us closer to an education system without exclusion and discrimination. -
This federal law was aimed at addressing inequalities in education by improving opportunities and initiatives for low-income families. The legislation provided resources to bridge the gap and give disadvantaged children access to quality education. In 1966, the ESEA was amended with the establishment of a grant program for the education of children with disabilities. -
This Supreme Court case established children with all disabilities’ right to free special education. This challenged the exclusion of children with disabilities from education and recognized that denying children with disabilities education violated their constitutional rights. -
This federal law prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in programs receiving assistance. It ensures that children with disabilities have equal access to education, as well as other opportunities. This law also requires schools to provide resources and services for support, including accommodations. -
This law replaced the EAHCA from 1975. It added to the EAHCA that required free and appropriate education for students with disabilities, individualized education plans, and least restrictive environments. IDEA included reforms such as person-first language, expansion of special education services, right for due process and confidentiality, and access to transition services and planning. It also added autism and traumatic brain injury to the realm of special education. -
This federal education law set goals for students and developed standardized tests, emphasized teacher qualifications, and increased funding for underprivileged children. It affected areas of education such as increased accountability, school choice, and greater flexibility for states and schools. -
IDEA from 1990 was amended as IDEIA to strengthen rights and protections for children with disabilities. It reiterated the practice of least restrictive environments according to the child’s needs and IEPs. It encouraged early intervention services and pushed for greater parent and school collaboration. It also highlighted the importance of accountability and assessment for children with disabilities.
(https://www.congress.gov/bill/108th-congress/house-bill/1350)