Analysis of the development of the education system for children with mental retardation in Smolensk at the beginning of the 21st century (historical aspect)

The paper examines the history of the development of the Russian system of correctional and developmental education of children with mental retardation. The analysis of the contemporary educational system for children with mental retardation in Smolensk is carried out. The author analyzes statistical data for the period 2013–2020, presented by the Department of Education and Youth Policy of the Administration of Smolensk, the Territorial Psychological-Medical-Pedagogical Commission and the Support Service for Socio-Psychological and Pedagogical Activities of Educational Institutions of Smolensk. It is concluded that, on the one hand, the number of children with mental retardation increases and, on the other hand, the number of classes of correctional and devel-opmental training decreases. The problems that impede the creation of an effective system of psychological and pedagogical support for children with mental retardation in the city are highlighted. Possible ways to solve these problems are outlined.