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National Association for Retarded Citizens (now ARC/USA)
https://thearc.org/about-us/history/
The Arc is an organization designed to provide resources and support for disabled people through criminal justice, employment, education, health, tech, future planning, and more. Founded by parents, the Arc focuses on helping individuals with compassion and grassroots organization. -
Brown v. Board of Education
Brown v. Board of Education was a landmark decision of the U.S. Supreme Court in which the court ruled that racial segregation in the education system is unconstitutional. Along with this, primarily black schools must have equal conditions to schools with majority white populations. It is important to recognize that while this is a landmark case, it did not improve the student experience of racial discrimination.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTGHLdr-iak -
Elementary and Secondary Education Act
ESEA is an extensive statute that funds primary and secondary education, emphasizing high standards and accountability. Per the act, funds are provided for professional development, materials, resources to support educational programs, and the promotion of parental involvement. This statute is specifically geared towards low income areas in efforts to combat racial segregation. -
Berkeley Center for Independent Living in California
The Berkley Center for Independent Living in California was a move towards increasing and normalizing the independence of special needs American adults. This included physically disabled people who previously were ill-equipped with the specific resources tailored to them to allow a more traditional living experience. This follows the least restrictive environment (LRE) model. -
Congressional Investigation
In efforts to improve the quality and reach of United States special education resources, congress made a goal to uncover the amount of children with special needs lacking proper educational facilitation. The Bureau of Education for the Handicapped found that there were eight million children requiring special education services. Of this total, 3.9 million students adequately had their educational needs met, 2.5 million were receiving a substandard education and 1.75 million weren’t in school. -
The Education for All Handicapped Children
This law requires all schools receiving federal funding to provide for handicapped students by accommodating their special needs and providing them with fair and equal access to education. This follows the "least restrictive environment" philosophy by ensuring funds are being distributed to make general education classrooms more inclusive. -
Honig v Doe
This supreme court case highlights the right to free and appropriate education. The court ruled that children with disabilities can not be expelled on account of uncontrollable behaviors related to said disabilities. -
No Child Left Behind Act
The No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB) is a United States federal law designed to improve public primary and secondary schools. By holding schools accountable, increased performances should ensue. -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEIA) follows the "least restrictive environment" philosophy to ensure appropriate placement of students in general education classrooms. -
Every Student Succeeds Act
The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) is the main education law for public schools in the United States. Schools are held accountable for the growth in student knowledge and experience. ESSA aims to provide an equal opportunity for disadvantaged students, including those who get special education.