Deaf Schools Termed 'Restrictive' The 1972 Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is re-adopted and amended to recommend that disabled students should attend schools with the "least restrictive environment." Residential deaf schools are struck a blow as they become labeled the "most restrictive environment." Enrollment plunges, and some schools close their doors. DEAF SCHOOL CLASSROOM IMAGE CREDIT: GALLAUDET UNIVERSITY ARCHIVES <-- BACK       NEXT -->