ADA
The Americans with Disabilities
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and all public and private places that are open to the general public.
In a school setting, the ADA requires schools to make reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities in order to ensure that they have equal access to education. These accommodations can include things like providing wheelchair ramps, accessible restrooms, and interpreters for students who are deaf or hard of hearing.
The ADA also requires schools to develop 504 plans for students with disabilities. 504 plans are similar to IEPs, but they are not as individualized. 504 plans outline the accommodations that a student with a disability needs in order to participate in school activities.
If you believe that your child's school is not complying with the ADA, you should contact the school district's ADA coordinator. You can also file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice.
Here are some specific examples of how the ADA applies to schools in Pennsylvania:
Schools must provide accessible transportation to students with disabilities.
Schools must provide accessible classrooms and other school facilities.
Schools must provide interpreters for students who are deaf or hard of hearing.
Schools must provide other accommodations as needed, such as extended time on tests or preferential seating.
If you have any questions about the ADA in a school setting, you should contact your local school district or the Pennsylvania Department of Education.