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American School for the Deaf
The American School for the Deaf is founded by Thomas Gallaudet. It opens in Hartford, Connecticut. This school is the first of its kind in the United States, laying the foundation for the development of special education programs throughout the nation. -
The Arc is Founded
The Arc, which was formerly known as the Association for Retarded Citizens of the United States is founded by parents / caregivers of children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The organization focuses on the advocacy of rights and inclusion of individuals with disabilities in all aspects of society, which includes education. -
Brown vs. Board of Ed.
This was a landmark case in which the Supreme Court ruled unanimously that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional. This case played a fundamental role in the civil rights movement and led to desegregation efforts in education across the United States. -
Mills vs. Board of Education
In this groundbreaking case the District of Columbia is mandated to provide free and appropriate public education to children with disabilities, regardless of their financial means. This decision basically says that children with disabilities are entitled to an education and that education cannot be denied due to the perceived additional costs of having to educate or accommodate these students. -
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act is signed, this prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in programs that are federally funded. This legislation sets the stage for other disability rights laws that are to come. -
Education for All Handicapped Children Act
EAHCA is established and it guarantees access to a free and appropriate public education for all children with disabilities. EAHCA is what laid the groundwork for passage of IDEA, which came shortly after and emphasizes the importance of inclusive education practices. Video on EAHCA
The linked video goes over the historical journey towards inclusive education for children with disabilities in the USA. -
IDEA PASSES
The individuals with disabilities Act was codified in 1975. This act mandated that states provide a free and appropriate public education to children with disabilities. IDEA guaranteed that students with disabilities receive special education services that meet their individual needs. This marked a significant step forward in educational equity. -
Americans with Disabilities Act
The Americans with Disabilities Act is signed into law by president George H.W. Bush and it prohibits discrimination towards individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including employment, transportation, and public accommodations. It is considered a landmark legislation as it ensures equal opportunities and equal access for people with disabilities, this includes the area of Education as well. -
Olmstead vs. Lois Curtis / Elaine Wilson
This is a vital supreme court case from 1999, in which the court ruled that unjustified segregation of individuals with disabilities in institutions may constitute discrimination under the ADA. This decision cements the rights of individuals with disabilities to receive services in the most integrated setting appropriate to their needs. This ruling has serious implications on education as well. Olmstead Decision explained and its impacts -
Rosa's Law
Rosa's Law signed in 2010, removes the terms mental retardation and mentally retarded from federal documents. It replaces the terms with intellectual disability and individual with an intellectual disability. The goal is to promote dignity/respect for individuals with intellectual disabilities. The story behind the law click here Rosa's Law -
Every Student Succeeds Act
The Every Student Succeeds Act is signed into law by President Obama, this replaces the No Child Left Behind Act. ESSA includes supports for students with disabilities and it emphasizes the importance of high academic standards and also equitable access to education for all students, including those with special needs.