ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)
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The ADA is a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in public services, employment and public places.
Topic: IDEA, law and procedure
In plain terms
The ADA, passed in 1990, applies to public schools whether or not they receive federal money, as well as to colleges, employers and many businesses. Its definition of disability matches Section 504, and amendments in 2008 told courts to read that definition broadly. In schools, the ADA overlaps heavily with Section 504. After high school, it is the law that protects students in college and at work, where IDEA no longer applies.
How it shows up in an IEP
The ADA rarely changes what goes into an IEP. It matters most in transition planning: the student needs to know that colleges and employers provide accommodations only when the person discloses a disability and asks, so self-advocacy goals carry real weight after graduation.
Example
A junior practices requesting extended test time by email with documentation attached, because the college disability office will expect the student, not a parent or case manager, to make the request.
The rule
Federal reference: 42 U.S.C. §12101.
Related terms
- Section 504Section 504 is a federal civil rights law that bans disability discrimination in programs that receive federal funds, including public schools.
- IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)IDEA is the federal law that guarantees eligible children with disabilities a free appropriate public education and sets the rules for IEPs.
- Self-advocacySelf-advocacy is the ability to understand one's own needs and rights, speak up for them, and ask for supports when needed.
- Transition servicesTransition services are coordinated activities in the IEP that help a student move from school to adult life: further education, work and independent living.
- Summary of performanceA summary of performance is a document given to a student who graduates or ages out, describing skills and recommendations for reaching adult goals.
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