ABSTRACT
The history of the people, problems, and politics surrounding the establishment
of federal special education policy is rich with useful illustrations for
advocates and educators. As the 50th anniversary of IDEA approaches, we use
a historical perspective to consider how the promise of the law – to ensure
access to a free appropriate public education for students with disabilities – is
advanced through rational inquiry, the exercise of democracy, and specially
designed instruction that prepares young people for living dignified and
productive lives. We reflect on the spirit of the law when it was written, and
on successes and challenges to its promise over time in envisioning an
optimistic future for special education.
The authors highlight many important improvements to special education in the past half-century, emphasizing the considerable promise ahead--even in the face of persistent challenges. Celebrating the tremendous growth in the number of children served and the expansion of inclusive educational practice, the authors take care to recognize concerns about meaningful access to learning and persistent inequities. They also note that collaboration and stakeholder engagement have been, and will continue to be key: "The history of the people, problems, and politics surrounding the establishment of federal special education policy in the U.S. is rich with illustrations. These examples serve to remind present day decision makers to involve stakeholders from the start, build on existing efforts, strengthen the capacity of personnel, cultivate personal relationships, and appreciate that modest gains are well worth seeking."