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The Horace Mann School for the Deaf in Boston
This schooling establishment was founded in 1869. Horace Mann School for the Deaf is extremely important within the history of special education as is the oldest school for the deaf and hard of hearing. Additionally, it had a principal by the name of Sarah Fuller. This madam gave lessons and assisted the famous Helen Keller with her ability to communicate through speech. With her success, Fuller influenced the opening of 15 schools for individuals who are deaf! -
Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court Case
A revolutionary case that provided the stepping stone for inclusivity for children of all backgrounds and disabilities in the classroom. Brown v. Board of Education fought for the grounds that segregation in schools was unconstitutional and blatantly wrong. Such a case pushed for the rights of these students for education and equality. This took place during the well-known civil rights movement and marked it as an important day for progress in this nation. This ruling began justice. -
Pennsylvania Association for Retarded Citizens v. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
In this case, the topic of isolation of individuals with mental retardation was brought to light. Children with a mental disability were not allowed to receive an education and were denied a quality education. PARC found this unacceptable and brought it to the commonwealth. The law ended up being overturned and children were able to receive a "free public program of education and training." -
Education for All Handicapped Children Act 94-142
As the United States got more progressive, Acts for disabled children came quick. Before 1975, children who were disabled were forced to attend institutions for their education instead of being treated like any other child. With this act, they are finally able to attend schools in a least restrictive environment while it being free and appropriate. Attached is a link with the act's history and its progress.
[https://www2.ed.gov/policy/speced/leg/idea/history.html] -
Board of Education of Hendrick Hudson Central School District v. Rowley.
While in school, young, deaf Amy Rowley needed the benefits of an interpreter. However, her school disagreed, denied, and refused to give her an interpreter. Rowley's parents took this to the courts and they found that there was no need to give their daughter an interpreter. They concluded that she was given a "free and appropriate education." -
Honig v. Doe.
This Supreme Court case was sparked by a school suspension of children with disabilities. These children were essentially removed and had their placement changed from school. This case embodies "zero reject." Even though they were suspended, the students are supposed to keep their free appropriate public education. Thus, the court ruled that any school could not expel or remove children with disabilities due to their behavior. https://www.c-span.org/video/?c4744972/user-clip-honig-doe -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
The purpose of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act was for every single student with disabilities to receive a FAPE and assist them with their future life outside of school. IDEA is provided to students and families at no cost, making it accessible. Previously, this act was known as the Education of Handicapped Children Act. -
No Child Left Behind Act
Similar to ESSA, this act was put to give every student equal and fair opportunities for quality education. NCLB, however, requires students to take exams from third-eighth grade in English and math studies. Moreover, this act didn't collect any input from parents, thus not letting the schools being held accountable for any issues. -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA)
This act focuses more on the environments for students with disabilities. It assists in creating a least restrictive environment so that students can meet their appropriate needs. Additionally, it ensures that disabled students are educated in the same building as other students. This creates a friendly learning environment for students, hence preventing discrimination against special needs students. -
Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)
In December of 2015, President Obama signed the ESSA which allowed for disadvantaged students, students with disabilities, and all students to receive a quality education in public schools. This act focuses on the progress of students in areas they need improvement in and provides support for them no matter their background. Additionally, this act was put forth to serve as a transition from No Child Left Behind.
