-
The American School for the Deaf was the first permanent school in the U.S that was created specifically for children with disabilities. It served children who were deaf or had a hard time hearing and was what marked the beginning of special education. This school proved that impaired students can still learn well when provided with appropriate instruction. -
The Perkins School for the Blind offered specific education to students with visual impairments. It quickly became well known for education Helen Keller. This school changed public opinion by showing that students with impairments can become independent and educated members of society. -
Brown v. Board of Education ruled that "separate but equal" education was unconstitutional. Even though the main focus was on racial segregation, the decision also later influenced disability rights cases. The ruling helped establish the idea that exclusion from regular education settings was discriminatory.
Brown v. Board of Education -
This court decision ruled that students with intellectual disabilities can not be denied a free public education. It required that schools to give instruction as similarly as possible to general education. This case paved the way for inclusive education and equal access. -
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act prohibited discrimination against people with disabilities in federally funded program, which included public schools. It required schools to provide accommodations so that students could access learning. This law expanded access to general education schools. -
This law granted students with disabilities the right to a free and appropriate public education. It created individualized education programs (IEPs) and required education in the least restrictive setting. This law also encouraged inclusion in general education schools. -
The Americans with Disabilities act expanded upon civil rights protections for people with disabilities in work and public places. While not specifically relating to education, it reinforced inclusion and accessibility all throughout society. Schools also benefitted from higher standards for accessibilities. -
The Individuals with Disabilities Education act replaced PL 94-142 and also strengthened protections for students with disabilities. It also promoted access to the general education curriculum and collaboration between special and general education teachers. This act continues to guide inclusive educational practices today. -
The No Child Left Behind Act required schools to include students with disabilities into statewide testing and accountability systems. It promoted high standards and access to grade-level curriculum for all students. This act also prioritized closing achievements gaps and ensured that students with disabilities were not excluded from general education requirements. -
The Every Student Succeeds Act replaced the No Child Left Behind Act by requiring schools to include students with disabilities in state accountability systems. It promoted access to grade-level material and inclusive teaching methods. The act also promotes education equity for all students.
Every Student Succeeds