In 1957, the Legislature created the Advisory Board on Handicapped, Gifted and Exceptional Children. Governor Orville Freeman appointed Dr. Maynard Reynolds as the Board's chair.
By June 1958, the Board reported that 19 classes in the state were available to students with IQs below 50. Ironically, parents were still encouraged to commit their children to state guardianship.
Governor Orville Freeman: Pushing for Change