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The First American School for the Deaf opened in Hartford, Connecticut and marked the beginning of formal special education in the United States. Founded by Thomas Gallaudet and Laurent Clerc, the school provided specialized instruction for deaf students. It established the idea that students with disabilities could and should be educated. https://www.asd-1817.org -
The Perkins School for the Blind was one of the first schools dedicated to educating students who were blind or visually impaired. It demonstrated that students with sensory disabilities could learn academic and life skills when given appropriate instruction. The school later educated Helen Keller, increasing national awareness. https://www.perkins.org -
By 1918, all U.S. states had passed compulsory education laws requiring children to attend school. However, many students with disabilities were still excluded or placed in separate institutions. These laws laid the groundwork for later legal challenges demanding access and inclusion. https://education.stateuniversity.com -
Brown v. Board of Education ruled that “separate but equal” schools were unconstitutional. Although the case focused on racial segregation, it influenced later special education cases. The decision supported the idea that segregation of any group of students is harmful and unequal. : https://www.oyez.org -
The Elementary and Secondary Education Act provided federal funding to improve education for disadvantaged students, including those with disabilities. It increased accountability and emphasized equal access to education. This law helped pave the way for future special education legislation. https://www.ed.gov -
This landmark case ruled that children with intellectual disabilities could not be denied a public education. It established that students with disabilities have the right to education and due process. PARC had a significant impact on later federal special education laws. https://disabilityjustice.org -
This law guaranteed a free appropriate public education (FAPE) for students with disabilities. It introduced Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and the concept of Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). This was a major step toward inclusion in a general education class. https://www.wrightslaw.com Video:
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The Americans with Disabilities Act is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. It applies to schools, workplaces, and public spaces. ADA supports accessibility and inclusion beyond the classroom. https://www.ada.gov -
IDEA was renamed and expanded PL 94-142, strengthening protections for students with disabilities. It emphasized inclusion, parent involvement, and access to the general education curriculum. IDEA remains the foundation of special education services today. https://sites.ed.gov/idea -
The 2004 reauthorization of IDEA aligned special education with accountability standards and evidence-based instruction. It reinforced inclusion in general education classrooms and emphasized progress monitoring. The law strengthened teacher qualifications and student outcomes. https://www.ed.gov