History of Special Education Timeline

  • Watson V. City of Cambridge

    He (Watson) was expelled from schools because after being observed by educators, and physicians they confirmed that the student showed signs of inattentiveness, would not benefit from instruction, was a distraction to other students due to the constant noises he would make, touching others, and his physical ability was very weak compared to others.
  • The Council for Exceptional Children

    The main goal of this organization is to improve the education for students with disabilities. This organization aims to organize and establish professional standards for the better outcome for the students.
  • The National Association for Retarded Citizens

    ARC (Association for Retarded Citizens) was formed to serve as an advocate for children with disabilities. This association's goal is to support families who have children with disabilities through activities that aid students with disabilities development.
  • Brown v. Board of Education

    Public education was offered to black and white students but there was a court case showcasing how unconstitutional the public system was towards black students as those students didn't have access to the buses, schools, and other public facilities.
  • The Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (ESEA)

    President Lyndon B. Johnson believed that all students should have access to a quality of education. Therefore, the federal government would fund education through materials, professional development, and resources that support the education system.
  • Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EAHCA)

    This Act was made to protect students with special needs by improving and developing effective special education programs, and services for students with disabilities.
  • The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 1990

    This Act has been updated since 1975 with new regulations regarding the programs offered to special education students. Since 2018 64% of students with disabilities have been placed in general education classes.
  • IDEA Amendments

    IDEA pushes for educating students with disabilities in a more inclusive setting with general education students rather than educating students with disabilities in a separate environment. IDEA also encourages students to seek employment, and post-secondary education.
  • The No Child Left Behind Act

    This Act includes holding teachers accountable for students academic progress. This encouraged educators to boost their students performance.
  • The Individuals With Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004

    The purpose of this Act is to improve the education for students with disabilities so equal opportunity for those students is available for them in society.