Options in Education
In 1975, the Education for All Handicapped Children Act - Public Law 94-142 - entitled children with disabilities to an appropriate education in the "least restrictive environment." This was generally interpreted to mean "inclusion" in local public schools. While some deaf students flourished, others felt isolated and frustrated. Few students would encounter deaf teachers or adults in school who could serve as counselors or mentors. Programs in public schools designed specifically for deaf students continue to grow, but for many children, they are the only deaf students in their class.