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First American School for the Deaf
Thomas Gallaudet founded the American School for the Deaf in Hartford, Connecticut, marking a crucial moment in the history of special education. This institution promoted the foundation for the education of deaf individuals in the United States, creating language development and educational opportunities for those with hearing impairments. https://www.asd-1817.org/ -
Brown v. Board of Education
The landmark Supreme Court case declared state laws establishing separate public schools for black and white students unconstitutional. The ruling established the foundation for desegregation in education, a concept that would impact initiatives towards inclusive education for students with disabilities, even though it was not directly related to special education. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NBlqcAEv4nk -
Mainstreaming Movement Begins
The mainstreaming movement gained momentum, advocating for the integration of students with disabilities into general education classrooms. This change cast doubt on the idea of ability-based student segregation and highlighted the value of variety and inclusivity in learning environments. https://www.wrightpsych.com/popular-topics/lre -
Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EAHCA)
Can also be known as Public Law 94-142, this federal legislation mandated a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) for all children with disabilities. It required schools to provide education in the least restrictive environment (LRE), forming the foundation for inclusion in all classrooms. https://www.gao.gov/products/113316 -
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Signed into law by President George H.W. Bush, the ADA prohibited discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including employment, transportation, and public accommodations. This inclusion and accessibility of those with disabilities were reaffirmed by this act. -
Inclusion Movement Expands Globally
The inclusion movement expanded globally, with countries around the world adopting policies and practices aimed at integrating students with disabilities into mainstream educational settings. This change was a reflection of the increasing awareness of the rights and potential for full participation in society of people with disabilities. -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
Can also be known as IDEA, this federal law ensured special education and related services for children with disabilities. It emphasized the importance of individualized education programs (IEPs) individualized to each student's special needs and provided guidelines for the implementation of inclusive practices. https://disabilityrightsflorida.org/disability-topics/disability_topic_info/individuals_with_disabilities_education_act_of_2004_idea -
No Child Left Behind Act
Went into law by President George W. Bush, NCLB goal was to improve educational outcomes for all students, including those with disabilities. It made it necessary for schools to meet certain academic standards and offered extra assistance to students who were having difficulty, stressing the significance of accountability and fair access to education. https://www.edweek.org/policy-politics/no-child-left-behind-an-overview/2015/04 -
Universal Design for Learning
The Universal Design for Learning (UDL) was developed to help educators create inclusive, adaptable learning environments that meet the requirements of all students, including those who have disabilities. It helps encourage accessibility and equity in education by highlighting many channels of speech, interaction, and representation. -
Every Student Succeeds Act
ESSA replaced NCLB and focused to ensure educational equity and excellence for all students. It emphasized the significance of individualized education and gave governments latitude in putting into effect research-proven strategies, such as those pertaining to inclusive education and assistance for students with disabilities.