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The American School for the Deaf was founded in Hartford, Connecticut, by Thomas Gallaudet and Laurent Clerc. It was the first permanent school for students with disabilities in the United States. This event marked the beginning of organized special education and set a precedent for other specialized schools. -
President Abraham Lincoln signed a charter creating Gallaudet University, the first higher education institution for deaf students. This was a major step forward, offering opportunities for students with disabilities beyond basic education. It showed that individuals with disabilities could succeed in advanced studies. -
Providence, Rhode Island, opened the first U.S. public school class for students with disabilities. This marked the start of integrating students with disabilities into the public school system. The program paved the way for future inclusion efforts. -
The Supreme Court ruled that segregation in schools was unconstitutional. Although it focused on race, the decision created the legal foundation for later inclusion of students with disabilities. It emphasized that all students deserve equal educational opportunities. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTGHLdr-iak -
In Washington, D.C., schools often excluded students with disabilities, claiming cost as the reason. The court ruled that schools must provide education to all students, regardless of disability or expense. This case helped establish due process rights in special education. -
The Pennsylvania Association for Retarded Citizens sued the state for denying education to children with intellectual disabilities. The court ruled that these children had the right to a free public education. This case was one of the first to guarantee educational rights for students with disabilities. -
Section 504 was the first civil rights law protecting individuals with disabilities. It prohibited discrimination in any program receiving federal funds, including schools. This law is the foundation of today’s 504 plans, which provide accommodations for students with disabilities. -
Congress passed PL 94-142, requiring schools to provide a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) to students with disabilities. The law introduced Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and required education in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). It transformed special education across the United States. This law required students with disabilities to be taught in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE), encouraging placement in general education classrooms whenever possible. -
The ADA extended civil rights protections to individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including schools, transportation, and employment. It ensured accessibility through ramps, interpreters, and accommodations. The law expanded the fight for inclusion beyond just education. IDEA reinforced the principle of inclusion by requiring that students with disabilities receive services and supports to help them participate in regular education settings. -
Congress updated IDEA to align with No Child Left Behind. It emphasized accountability, evidence-based teaching, and progress monitoring. Response to Intervention (RTI) became a key method to identify and support students earlier. https://sites.ed.gov/idea/ -
ESSA replaced No Child Left Behind, keeping accountability but giving states more flexibility. It required students with disabilities to be included in statewide testing. This reinforced the importance of high expectations and inclusion. -
The pandemic forced schools to switch to virtual learning, which disrupted special education services. Many students with disabilities struggled without in-person supports. This highlighted the need for accessible technology and compensatory services.