History of Special Education and Inclusive Education

  • The Smith-Hughes National Vocational Rehabilitation Act

    The Smith-Hughes National Vocational Rehabilitation Act
    In recent times, a bill has been passed which provides federal funding for vocational education to individuals with disabilities. This legislation aims to support and improve the employability of people with disabilities and help them lead a better life. The bill has been an important step toward ensuring equal access to education and employment opportunities for all members of the community.
  • The GI Bill of Rights

    The GI Bill of Rights
    One of the ways to support veterans who have disabilities is by providing them with access to education and vocational training programs. These benefits can play a crucial role in helping them acquire the skills and knowledge necessary for employment and enable them to make valuable contributions to their communities. With the right educational opportunities, veterans with disabilities can enhance their job prospects and improve their overall quality of life.
  • Brown v. Board of Education

    Brown v. Board of Education
    The Supreme Court unequivocally declared that the practice of separating black and white students into different educational facilities was unconstitutional, thereby establishing the foundation for complete desegregation across all areas of education, including special education.
  • The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA)

    The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA)
    Providing federal funding for education and programs has been a crucial step toward providing assistance and support to children with disabilities. These funds have facilitated the development and implementation of various programs that aim to empower and enable children with disabilities to have the same access to education and opportunities as their peers.
    https://ldaamerica.org/legislation/idea-esea/
  • Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EAHCA)

    Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EAHCA)
    The enactment of a legal requirement that provides free and suitable public education in the least restrictive environment for children with disabilities greatly encourages inclusion in regular classrooms, thereby ensuring equal opportunities to quality education for all children, regardless of their disabilities. This not only promotes a conducive environment for academic learning but also fosters social growth for children with disabilities, providing them with new avenues for development.
  • PL 99-457

    PL 99-457
    The EAHCA amendment effectively extends services to children aged three to five, emphasizing early intervention and providing assistance for infants and toddlers with disabilities. It's a crucial step in ensuring that children with disabilities can receive the necessary support and care at an early age to help them reach their full potential.
    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_Law_99-457
  • Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

    Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
    A law has been signed to prohibit discrimination on the grounds of disability in all areas of public life, including education. This law promotes the inclusion of students with disabilities in mainstream settings, further promoting equal opportunities for everyone. It is a significant step forward in ensuring that individuals with disabilities have the same opportunities as everyone else, regardless of their physical or mental abilities.
  • Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Amendments

    Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Amendments
    IDEA amendments emphasize including disabled children in general education classrooms as much as possible. This highlights the importance of creating an inclusive learning environment that caters to the unique needs of all students. Including those with disabilities, and fosters their overall development and academic success.
  • No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB)

    No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB)
    The law has been signed, which requires all states to establish and maintain high academic standards for students, including those with disabilities. It also mandates annual testing to assess and monitor their progress towards these standards. Students with disabilities receive the same level of education as their non-disabled peers and to provide them with the necessary resources to achieve their full potential in their academic pursuits.
    https://youtu.be/0--2nhsDorg?si=qo7ONVR6BHNblTbt
  • Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)

    Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA)
    The legislation has been enacted, replacing the No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB). It continues to emphasize accountability and excellence in education for all students, including those with disabilities. Furthermore, the new law provides states with greater autonomy in tailoring their education systems to meet the unique needs of their students.
  • COVID-19 Pandemic

    COVID-19 Pandemic
    Pandemic-induced school closures have led to remote learning, posing challenges for students with disabilities. Inclusive educational practices are crucial to support all students, highlighting the need for flexibility.