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American School of Deaf
The school for the deaf located in Hartford, Connecticut was founded by Thomas Hopkins Gallaudet and Laurant Clerc. It was the first permanent school to provide educational services to individuals who were deaf and hard of hearing. Students attending the school along with others deaf individuals created their own visual signs for communication, which eventually developed into American Sign Language (ASL). https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=shl8wvKvb_4 -
Easter Seals
An organization that raises awareness by supporting the rights of individuals with disabilities. Easter Seals assists with public service campaigns and implementing powerful messages to ensure individuals with disabilities acquire their rights under the law. The organization's main focus is to provide independent skills and resources to individuals with disabilities. -
The Association for Retarded Citizen (ARC)
This organization was founded by parents of students with disabilities. The ARC supports over 7.2 million Americans with developmental and intellectual disabilities. These services, support, and services provides the necessities that individuals need to live productive lives. The organization has established state and local chapters that advocate state and local legislation that supports individuals with disabilities. -
504 Rehabilitation Act
The first civil rights law to provide equal access to educational opportunities to individuals with disabilities. Any educational institute that receives federal funding cannot discriminate against an individual based on their disability. The Rehabilitation Act also provides accommodations to individuals who did not qualify to receive assistance under IDEA. -
Family Education Rights and Privacy Act
FERPA is a federal law that protects the privacy of students with disabilities' educational records. Public, private, post-education, and educational agencies that receive funding must follow the appropriate procedures to protect educational records. Written permission must be provided by the parent or age of majority individual before schools can release any educational records. -
IDEA Act
A federal education law that provides states and federal fundings for free appropriate public education to students with disabilities. IDEA also provides an individualized education plan (IEP) accompanied by special education services, resources, and interventions to support students learning. Schools are required to evaluate students who may have a disability to determine eligibility for special services. IDEA was revised in 1997 and 2004. -
Handicap Children's Protection Act (HCPA)
Parents, guardians, or legal representatives have the right to challenge schools' decisions as they relate to their child's education. Individuals who prevailed in court were awarded attorney's fees. The amendment enhanced the education services in schools. -
American with Disability Act (ADA)
This law prohibits any individual from being discriminated against based on their disability. Schools are mandated to provide equal educational opportunity to students with disabilities. Students can not be denied participation in school activities or programs. Accommodation and modification are provided to students in an inclusive learning environment. -
No Child Left Behind
The NCLB was replaced in December 2015 with the Every Student Succeeds Act. The law holds schools responsible for educating all students. Students with disabilities are required to participate in assessments with appropriate accommodations and support. Students' assessment results must be reported to establish clear accountability. Teachers must offer support to struggling students as well as those with disabilities. -
Autism Speak
The largest research organization that brings awareness to autism and offers resources, advocacy, training, and support to individuals and their families. The organization provides an inclusive environment where autistic individuals can thrive throughout their lives. The organization advocates for the benefits of individuals with autism. Autism Speak- https://www.autismspeaks.org/