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Emile by Jean Jacques Rosseau
Rosseau wrote a treatise on the nature of education and the nature of people which set the foundation for many educators. He established that children should be educated in agreement with their cognitive speed and minimal environmental stimuli. He argues that children can fulfill their natural potential through the practice of education. -
American Asylum for the Education of the Deaf and Dumb
In Hartford, Connecticut, Thomas Gallaudet created the first school for deaf people, which is now called American School for the Deaf. The same year it was established, the federal government awarded the school 23,000 acres of land in Alabama to expand their education throughout the nation. This school was a pivotal model for education of deaf people and encouraged the establishment of several state-operated residential schools for the deaf. -
Council for Exceptional Children
Elizabeth Farrell founded the CEC with a group of educators who were determined to advance the education of children with disabilities. At this time, there was very little understanding about people with disabilities and their need for education. Therefore, this council was dedicated to understand specialized needs and improve educational opportunities for children through advocacy, research, and professional development.
(https://youtu.be/XoZC1vN2OSk?si=_AC6kJxgvFh-zNg1) -
Brown vs. Board of Education
This crucial Supreme Court case established that racial segregation in public schools was unconstitutional, overturning the previous belief of “separate but equal.” It was a significant step for the Civil Rights Movement as it continued desegregation efforts around the nation. However, it is also a step toward inclusive education for all children, including those with disabilities. This victory brought us closer to an education system without exclusion and discrimination. -
Elementary and Secondary Education Act
This federal law was aimed at addressing inequalities in education by improving opportunities and initiatives for low-income families. The legislation provided resources to bridge the gap and give disadvantaged children access to quality education. In 1966, the ESEA was amended with the establishment of a grant program for the education of children with disabilities. -
Mills vs. Board of Education of the District of Columbia
This Supreme Court case established children with all disabilities’ right to free special education. This challenged the exclusion of children with disabilities from education and recognized that denying children with disabilities education violated their constitutional rights. -
Rehabilitation Act
This federal law prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in programs receiving assistance. It ensures that children with disabilities have equal access to education, as well as other opportunities. This law also requires schools to provide resources and services for support, including accommodations. -
Individual with Disabilities Education Act
This law replaced the EAHCA from 1975. It added to the EAHCA that required free and appropriate education for students with disabilities, individualized education plans, and least restrictive environments. IDEA included reforms such as person-first language, expansion of special education services, right for due process and confidentiality, and access to transition services and planning. It also added autism and traumatic brain injury to the realm of special education. -
No Child Left Behind
This federal education law set goals for students and developed standardized tests, emphasized teacher qualifications, and increased funding for underprivileged children. It affected areas of education such as increased accountability, school choice, and greater flexibility for states and schools. -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act
IDEA from 1990 was amended as IDEIA to strengthen rights and protections for children with disabilities. It reiterated the practice of least restrictive environments according to the child’s needs and IEPs. It encouraged early intervention services and pushed for greater parent and school collaboration. It also highlighted the importance of accountability and assessment for children with disabilities.
(https://www.congress.gov/bill/108th-congress/house-bill/1350)