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First U.S School for the Blind
The Perkins School for the Blind was founded in Massachusetts, with the goals of creating equal opportunities for people with visual impairments and any additional disabilities. Its inclusive and innovative approaches have significantly shaped special education in the U.S, serving as a model for future schools. Perkins also advocates for the blind and deaf communities, and promotes the inclusion of students with all disabilities into mainstream settings as well. -
Brown VS. Board of Education
A court case regarding segregation in United States Public Schools. This case was initially started by a group of parents from Kansas, fighting for the rights of their children and all students with disabilities who faced prejudice daily. Racial segregation in public schools was ultimately deemed as unconstitutional, as it violated the 14th amendment- the educational facilities for black and white students were separate, but not equal. -
First Down Syndrome Association
NADS National Association for Down Syndrome (NADS) The first United States organization dedicated to supporting individuals with Down Syndrome (DS) and their families, as well as raising awareness and improving the quality of education for these students. NADS was founded by a mother who was advised to either institutionalize her baby with DS or raise the child on her own without any resources —since none were available at the time. -
Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA)
The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) protects students from disadvantaged backgrounds by ensuring they have equal access to public education. The act provides financial assistance to schools serving low-income students and offers training programs for teachers to help improve student growth and performance. -
Vocational Rehabilitation Act (VRA)
Vocational Rehabilitation Act (VRA) forbids discrimination against students with disabilities in programs that receive federal funding. The act provides more access to opportunities in schools, in the workplace, and community services. It also introduced Section 504, which ensures that students with disabilities receive accommodations from their schools. -
Education for All Handicapped Children Act
The Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EAHCA) guarantees a free, appropriate public education for all children with disabilities. It also ensures that the students are placed in a non-restrictive environment where they will have equal opportunities to interact with non-disabled students. Additionally, the law allows parents of children with disabilities the right to participate in the administrative decisions regarding their child's education. -
Honig VS. Doe
Honig VS. Doe
This case involved two students with emotional and/ or behavioral disorders who were suspended from their school for behavior related to their disabilities. Their families argued the suspensions violated the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The ruling favored the students, emphasizing the need to address behavioral challenges with educational support instead of exclusion. -
Oberti VS. Clementon
This case involves a student with down syndrome who was placed in a segregated classroom for special education instead of a mainstream one. The ruling favored the student, establishing that the school district did not make reasonable efforts to see how the student would perform in a general classroom. In cases where placement outside the classroom is needed, school districts must still include children in the same school programs along with children with no disabilities. -
Cedar Rapids VS. Garret F. Garret
This case involved a student with a physical disability who required nurses services throughout the school day. The students' school district argued that they were not required to provide the services, however the supreme court overruled this, deciding that he should continue receiving services from the school, free of charge. Denying the services violated the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, as it would interfere with his ability to learn in the least restrictive environment. -
Every Student Succeeds ACT (ESSA)
Signed into law by President Obama, The ESSA replaced the No Child Left Behind Act. It provides supplementary opportunities for students who were not progressing adequately in order to ensure that every individual has an equal chance to succeed. The act aims to enhance the quality of education for all students and ensures that all are taught to high academic standards.