-
1st Federal Law on Disability Support
In 1798, the U.S. passed its first federal law that indirectly supported individuals with disabilities. The law provided for the care of sick and disabled seamen which laid the foundation for later disability-related legislation. Although it is not specific to education, it reflected early federal involvement in supporting populations with special health or developmental needs. -
1st Public Special Education Class
Rhode Island established the first public school classroom dedicated to children with disabilities in 1896. This marked the beginning of state-level recognition that students with special needs deserved access to education, even if it was in a segregated setting. While the services were limited, this was a turning point toward inclusion in public schools. -
Normalization Movement in Denmark
The idea of “normalization” emerged in Denmark during the 1950s. It promoted the integration of individuals with disabilities into mainstream society. This philosophy emphasized living and learning in environments as close to typical life as possible. It had a powerful influence on future American policies regarding inclusion and the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). -
1st Special Olympics
The inaugural Special Olympics were held in Chicago in 1968 and were founded by Eunice Kennedy Shriver. The event showcased the abilities and potential of individuals with intellectual disabilities, breaking down societal stigma. It was a global celebration of inclusion, physical activity, and equality in public life. https://youtu.be/OiiUPbEhp80 The video is where Mrs. Shriver gave the inaugural charge to the athletes at the first Special Olympics. -
Sect. 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
Section 504 was a groundbreaking civil rights law that prohibited discrimination against individuals with disabilities in federally funded programs, including public schools. It mandated reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities, regardless of whether they qualified for special education under IDEA. This law remains a foundation for accessibility and equal opportunity in education. https://www.ed.gov/laws-and-policy/individuals-disabilities/section-504 -
Ed. for All Handicapped Children Act
In 1975, Congress passed PL 94-142, later known as IDEA, which guaranteed a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) for all children with disabilities. This law required that students receive an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and be educated in the Least Restrictive Environment. It was the first time children with disabilities were guaranteed public education by federal law. https://youtu.be/3XMndYNEGFA This is a video on the history and a summary of IDEA. -
Self-Advocacy & Inclusion Movement
During the 1980s and 1990s, self-advocacy among people with disabilities gained momentum. Advocates like Judy Heumann fought for rights in education, employment, and public access. Their work influenced inclusive education practices, pushing schools to place students with disabilities alongside peers in general education classrooms whenever appropriate. -
No Child Left Behind
NCLB introduced strong accountability measures for all students, including those with disabilities. Schools were required to demonstrate adequate yearly progress, and special education students were expected to participate in state assessments. This law shifted focus toward measurable outcomes and reinforced the inclusion of students with disabilities in academic progress reporting. -
IDEA Reauthorization
IDEA was reauthorized in 2004 to align with the goals of NCLB. The reauthorization emphasized results-driven accountability, early intervention, and transition planning for life after high school. It also clarified procedural safeguards and increased parental participation in the IEP process. -
Ongoing – Child Find
Under IDEA, states are legally required to identify and evaluate all children suspected of having a disability — this process is known as “Child Find.” The goal is to ensure early access to support and services so that no student is overlooked. Evaluations must be comprehensive, nondiscriminatory, and conducted with parental consent. https://www.fdlrsnefec.org/child-find/referring-a-child This website has information about Child Find in Florida.