As a VR counselor, you may support students with disabilities as they move through school into adult life. To do that well, it's important to understand the laws that protect their rights in school - and how those laws connect to your work.
Better Support Starts with Stronger Knowledge
Understanding these laws helps you:
- Ensure transition services are fair, accessible, and appropriate
- Coordinate effectively with schools and other agencies
- Prevent gaps in support that could limit student success
- Support students and families as they speak up for their rights
The Three Key Laws:
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
- A federal law that mandates schools meet the needs of children with disabilities and provide a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE).
- Schools must offer special education services through an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
- Requires education be provided in the least restrictive environment alongside non-disabled peers to the greatest extent possible.
- Applies only in school settings.
- Does not allow families to sue for money, even if the school makes mistakes.
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504)
- A civil rights law that prohibits disability discrimination in any school or program that receives federal funding.
- Schools must provide accommodations and modifications to ensure equal access.
- Applies to K–12 schools, colleges, and public education programs.
- Allows families to take legal action if a student’s rights are violated.
Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA)
- A broad civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability in public places, including schools.
- Applies to all public elementary, secondary, and postsecondary schools - even those that don’t receive federal funding.
- Requires reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities, including physical and cognitive disabilities.
- Protects access to school programs, services, and activities.
- Like Section 504, allows families to take legal action if rights are violated.
Explore These Resources
Understanding the basics of these laws is an important part of supporting students as they pursue education and quality employment. Explore these resources to learn more.
Overview of the Laws
- Three Important Laws that Support Individuals with Disabilities – National Education Association
- Disability Rights Laws in Public Primary and Secondary Education: How Do They Relate? - ADA National Network
IDEA
- Learn the Law: IDEA - National Center for Learning Disabilities
- Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) - U.S. Department of Education
Section 504
- Learn the Law: Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act - National Center for Learning Disabilities
- 504 Accommodations Guide - Pennsylvania State Education Association
- Section 504 - U.S. Department of Education
ADA
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