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American Association on Mental Deficiency Established
Now, the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities promotes understanding and support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, advancing advocacy and educational practices. This organization was critical in shifting public attitudes and influencing early special education policy. -
Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) Formed
The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) was established to enhance the education and well-being of children with exceptionalities. It advocates for their rights and needs while supporting professional development for educators. The CEC has become a prominent voice in the field of special education, influencing research, policy, and teacher training. -
Brown v. Board of Education
This landmark Supreme Court case declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional. Its ruling later served as a foundation for advocating the inclusion of students with disabilities, establishing the principle that "separate is not equal." Brown v. Board inspired disability rights advocates to confront the exclusion and segregation of students with disabilities. -
Mills v. Board of Education of District of Columbia
The court ruled that no child should be denied public education because of disabilities. It also mandated the equitable allocation of resources for all students. The Mills case expanded on the principles established in PARC, ensuring that all children with disabilities have the right to education and due process. -
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
This law prohibits discrimination based on disability in programs receiving federal funding.
Rationale: It was the first federal civil rights protection for individuals with disabilities, influencing accessibility and accommodations. -
Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) principle was introduced
The concept of the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) has become more significant, highlighting that students with disabilities ought to be educated alongside their typically developing peers to the greatest extent feasible. LRE encourages inclusive practices and enhances social interactions and learning experiences for all students. -
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
ADA is a comprehensive civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life. It extends inclusion beyond schools to include employment, transportation, and community access. -
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
IDEA renamed and reauthorized EAHCA, added autism and traumatic brain injury as disability categories, and emphasized planning for transition into adulthood. IDEA modernized and expanded special education law, reinforcing the rights of students and their families. -
Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework was introduced
The Universal Design for Learning (UDL) framework was created to support instructional design and ensure that students with different learning needs have access to education. UDL emphasizes the provision of various ways to represent information, engage learners, and allow for expression, catering to the diverse requirements of students in inclusive learning environments. -
No Child Left Behind Act (NCLB)
NCLB enhanced accountability for every student, including those with disabilities, by mandating their involvement in standardized tests and striving to bridge achievement disparities. It also focused on the educational results of students with disabilities, making schools responsible for their advancement. -
Response to Intervention (RTI) framework introduces
RTI is a multi-layered approach aimed at recognizing and providing assistance to students who are having difficulties at an early stage through escalating levels of intervention. It focuses on instruction guided by data and timely intervention, enhancing the precision of special education identification while minimizing unnecessary referrals. -
Endrew F. v. Douglas County School District
The Supreme Court ruled that IEPs must provide more than minimal progress and aim for meaningful educational benefits. It clarified the standard for Free, Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) and emphasized the necessity of ambitious goals in IEPs.