Timeline Of The History Of Special Education
In 2022-2023, the U.S. Department of Education reported that 15 percent of students in public schools receive special education services. The journey of special education is one of progress, advocacy, and inclusion. That is why an education lawyer will walk through the timeline of the history of special education and explore the key milestones that shaped its evolution below:
Early 19th Century And The Beginnings Of Special Education
In the early 1800s, there was little understanding of disabilities, and children with disabilities were often excluded from schools. Some early efforts included the establishment of specialized schools:
1817
The American School for the Deaf was founded in Hartford, Connecticut, becoming the first special education institution in the United States.
1832
The Perkins School for the Blind opened in Massachusetts, focusing on students with visual impairments. These schools marked the first step toward recognizing the needs of students with disabilities.
20th Century Was The Momentum For Change
The early 1900s saw slow but growing awareness of disabilities. However, most children with special needs were still segregated or denied access to education. As our friends at K Altman Law can share, key milestones include:
1918
Compulsory education laws required all children to attend school, but students with disabilities were often excluded.
1922
The Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) was founded, advocating for children with disabilities and professional training for teachers. This period laid the groundwork for future reforms.
1950s-1960s Saw Civil Rights And Inclusion
The Civil Rights Movement had a profound influence on special education. Advocates began to draw parallels between racial segregation and the exclusion of students with disabilities:
1954
The landmark Brown v. Board of Education decision ruled that “separate but equal” education is unconstitutional, inspiring advocates for special education.
1965
The Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) provided funding to schools serving low-income families, including programs for students with disabilities.
This era marked the beginning of policy changes to support inclusive education.
1970s Had Landmark Legislation
The 1970s were a turning point for special education in the U.S., as legal protections were introduced for students with disabilities:
1972
PARC v. Pennsylvania and Mills v. Board of Education established that children with disabilities have a right to free public education.
1975
The Education for All Handicapped Children Act (EAHCA), now known as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), was passed.
1980s-1990s Were For Expanding Services And Inclusion
1990
IDEA was reauthorized, introducing the term “disability” and emphasizing transition services to prepare students for life after school.
1997
IDEA amendments encouraged inclusive education, ensuring students with disabilities could learn alongside their peers whenever possible.
21st Century Modern Special Education
2004
IDEA was reauthorized again, aligning with the No Child Left Behind Act to emphasize accountability and measurable outcomes for students with disabilities.
2020s
Advances in technology, assistive tools, and individualized education programs (IEPs) have further enhanced learning opportunities for students with special needs.
The history of special education reflects decades of progress toward inclusion, equity, and advocacy. From early specialized schools to modern legislation like IDEA, each milestone has strengthened the rights and opportunities for students with disabilities. However, special education still has more progress to be made. If you feel your student is not being supported properly, contact a lawyer near you for help.