The ADA applies to private schools with the exception of private schools that are directly operated by religious institutions.

Typically, time accommodations on tests are considered a “minor adjustment”. Note that while Section 504 does not apply to private schools that do not receive any federal funding, Section 504 does obligate private schools to enroll students with disabilities if the accommodations for the student cause only a “minor adjustment”. Extended time on standardized tests can be particularly important when your ADHD-diagnosed child is preparing to take the ACT or SAT. What is considered “reasonable and appropriate accommodations” is determined by a team at the school and usually consists of such things as quiet spaces, extended or unlimited time for testing, and additional study assistance. The ADA considers ADHD a disability and therefore, ADHD students are entitled to receive such accommodations under the law. The Rehabilitation Act, as well as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, guarantees children with physical or mental impairments that majorly affect their lives receive “reasonable and appropriate accommodations”. Rather than an IEP, they may recommend that the student receive a 504 Plan, named after Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Schools will sometime push back if an ADHD child does not have a clear learning disability. If your child has a diagnosed learning disability, you should speak with the school counselor to determine what services and accommodations your child is entitled to under the IDEA.Ĭhildren diagnosed with ADHD are covered under the IDEA if their ADHD significantly impairs academic performance. Students covered under the IDEA are required to have an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) where school counselors, teachers, and other school administrators meet with parents regularly to help your child with his educational career. Congress reauthorized the IDEA in 2004 and most recently amended the IDEA through Public Law 114-95, the Every Student Succeeds Act, in December 2015. Learning disabilities such as executive function issues, dyslexia, handwriting problems, issues with short or long-term memory, and metacognitive disorders are all covered under this law. The IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Act) is a law that was passed to allow for additional services and improvement of services for students with disabilities. The following is a brief guide to laws and resources for ensuring your ADHD child receives the accommodations that he needs at school. But it can be difficult if you aren’t certain about what your options are or who can offer assistance. The day you learn your child has been diagnosed with ADHD or a learning disability is the day you become an advocate for your child to ensure he or she has the best school experience possible.

504 plan accommodations list for adhd