Section 2: Laws                                                                                                                                                      MO-AHEAD > Table of Contents > Section 2.2

 

The information below shows similarities and differences among the laws that affect students with disabilities. Secondary schools must comply with the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA), while post-secondary institutions such as colleges and universities must comply with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Because they are very different laws, students and parents are advised to familiarize themselves with the differences.

Comparison of Responsibilities Under P.L. 94-142 Amendments and Section 504 and ADA

Issue Responsibility at Secondary Level Responsibility at Post-Secondary Level
Identification School Student
Assessment School Student
Programming School/Parent Student/Institution
Advocacy School/Parent Student
Decision Making Placement Team Student
Transition Planning Placement Team Student

Brinckerhoff, L.C., Shaw, S.F., and McGuire, J.M. (1992) "Promoting access, accommodations, and independence for college students with learning disabilities." Journal of Learning Disabilities, 25(7), 417-429. Copyright 1992 by PRO-ED, Inc. Reprinted with permission.

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