The History of Special Education in Public Schools During the Life of Judy Heumann Project

In March 2023, the disability community lost a pivotal figure in civil rights activism—Judy Heumann, often called “The Mother of the Disability Rights Movement.” Heumann’s tireless advocacy played a key role in shaping policies and legislation that promote the rights of people with disabilities. For this project, you will explore the historical landmarks of special education in public schools, focusing on the significant legislation and court cases that impacted the education of students with disabilities during Judy Heumann’s life.

Your project should address how specific legal milestones have affected the educational experiences of students with disabilities in public schools, incorporating personal insights and examples. Additionally, reflect on where we stand today in the field of special education: Have we made significant progress, or do we still face challenges? Are students with disabilities now receiving a truly inclusive education, and is the current framework (e.g., IDEA) still sufficient for the needs of today’s students?

Project Options:

You can choose the format for your project:

Research Paper: Write a detailed paper analyzing the historical context and the evolution of special education.

Alternative formats (e.g., evaluating a building for accessibility) are possible. If you have a unique idea, please reach out for approval.

Group Projects: If working in a team, each member must contribute significantly. Larger, more detailed submissions are expected from groups compared to individual projects.

Resources:

You are encouraged to review provided documents and conduct additional research.
Use appropriate citations and adhere to writing conventions (APA format). Plagiarism will not be tolerated.
Process for Completing the Project:

Watch the documentary “CripCamp: A Disability Revolution”
Watch it here: CripCamp: A Disability Revolution
This documentary chronicles the journey of young people with disabilities as they advocate for civil rights.

Research Judy Heumann
Review her work and impact on the disability rights movement.

Review Landmark Cases and Legislation

Familiarize yourself with major court cases that shaped special education over the past 70 years.
Choose at least four key court cases to discuss in your project. Focus on their long-term effects on public education for students with disabilities.
Study the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)

Learn about the six core principles of IDEA. Discuss how these principles have influenced special education practices in public schools.
Develop a Central Argument

Your project should have a clear theme or thesis.
Take a stance: Has special education for students with disabilities in public schools progressed?
For example, consider: Is IDEA still meeting the needs of students with disabilities today?
Your project should be more than a summary of facts—provide evidence and analysis, linking the history and present-day challenges.
Project Structure:
Title
Choose a concise title that reflects the focus of your project.

Introduction

Clearly state the central question your project will address.
Provide context for the significance of Judy Heumann and the evolution of special education.
Project Overview

Objective: What are you aiming to demonstrate or analyze?
Scope: Define the years covered, the population of students with disabilities considered, and the focus on public schools.
Evaluation: Provide a preliminary answer to the central question raised in your introduction.
Main Content

Legislation and Court Cases: Analyze at least four key legal cases, explaining their impact on the education of students with disabilities.
IDEA: Discuss how the six principles of IDEA have influenced education.
Personal Reflection: Incorporate your own experiences or observations to make connections between the historical context and present-day realities.
Current Strengths and Wins

Highlight successes and improvements in special education that have been achieved due to legislation and advocacy.
Current Challenges

Discuss ongoing challenges, shortcomings, and gaps in the current system, particularly in light of recent developments in education.
Reflection on Next Steps

Propose future changes or initiatives that could improve special education, based on your analysis.
References

Provide citations for all sources used in your project (APA format).

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