Inclusion Timeline

By JERowe

  • IQ Test

    Alfred Binet and Theodore Simon publish work that becomes the basis of the modern IQ test.

  • Autism

    Leo Kanner identifies characteristics of children with autism

  • Learning Disabilities

    Samuel A. Kirk introduces the term learning disabilities.

  • Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

    Individuals with disabilities have the same legal rights and admission to programs and services. It is illegal to discriminate against anyone solely due to their disability. It is also illegal to deny benefits and participation due to a disability.

  • Education of All Handicapped Children Act of 1975

    This law is considered the basis for all subsequent special education practice. The law states that all students with disabilities have legal rights to free and appropriate public education (FAPE) as well as the least restrictive environment (LRE).

  • Board of Education of the Hendrick Hudson Central School District v. Rowley

    This case defined for the first time what is meant by FAPE.

  • Regular Education Initiative (REI)

    Madeline Will urged general education and special education teachers to work together to educate all their students. This has caused educators to rethink what inclusive practices look like, for whom it is appropriate, and how students with disabilities can be taught within the general education classroom.

  • Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

    IDEA approves and reinforces all aspects of the Education for All Handicapped Children Act. IDEA expands the disability categories by adding autism and traumatic brain injury. The act also provides a definition to transition services. IDEA also makes assistive technology more accessible.

  • Americans with Disabilities Act

    American With Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) prohibits discrimination of special needs individuals in adulthood.

  • Individuals With Disabilities Education Improvement Act

    Reauthorization of IDEA that legally required that students with disabilities be taught by teachers who are highly qualified (and defines highly qualified), have obtained a state teaching license, and are certified in special education as well as core subjects. The act also elaborates on parental involvement and discipline.