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In 1817, the American School for the Deaf opened
in Hartford, Connecticut. It was the first permanent school for children who are deaf in the United States. This school marked the beginning of organized special education in America. -
In the early 20th century, the eugenics movement promoted forced sterilization of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Many states passed laws allowing the government to sterilize people without their consent, believing it would “improve” society. This dark chapter reminds us why protecting the rights and dignity of people with disabilities is so important today. -
slideshare.net The 1954 Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court case ruled that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional. This landmark decision opened the door for equal access to education for all marginalized groups. It laid important groundwork for later special education laws. -
In 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the ESEA into law to help students from disadvantaged backgrounds. The law provided more federal funding for public schools and special programs. It set a foundation for future support of students with disabilities. -
1973 -Rehabilitation Act (Section 504): Banned disability discrimination in federally funded programs, including schools
1975 -Education for All Handicapped Children Act (PL 94‑142/EHA): Guaranteed free appropriate public education (FAPE), mandatory evaluations, Individualized Education Plans (IEPs), and parental rights
1977 -Section 504 Sit‑in Protests: Landmark 25-day sit-in in San Francisco to enforce the Section 504 regulations -
1990 – Enactment of IDEA: EHA renamed Individuals with Disabilities Education Act; added autism and TBI; required transition plans to adulthood
1997 2004-Amendments: Emphasized inclusive placement, technology, funding for early intervention, accountability, and teacher qualifications -
The IDEA was reauthorized
and aligned with the Assistive Technology Act. Schools had to consider students’ needs for assistive technology like devices and software. This helped more students with disabilities access the general curriculum. -
The U.S. Department of Education
strengthened early intervention services under IDEA Part C. These services help babies and toddlers with developmental delays. Early support can make a big difference in children’s futures. -
Today, parents, teachers, and advocates continue to fight for the rights of students with disabilities. New challenges and opportunities shape special education every year. Advocacy ensures that laws like IDEA and Section 504 remain strong.