NEA supports the protections that all individuals with disabilities—both visible and invisible—are entitled to under the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. Individuals with disabilities include persons of all ages who have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. Although we don’t think of asthma or diabetes as a disability, individuals with such medical conditions and other non-apparent disabilities deserve the same consideration and protection under federal law.
Students with disabilities may or may not be eligible for special education services, as outlined in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA); however, those who are not eligible for special education services under IDEA are entitled to a free, appropriate education (FAPE) and are protected from discrimination under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. The NEA supports a free, appropriate public education for all students with disabilities in a least restrictive environment (LRE), which must be determined by maximum teacher and parent/guardian involvement.
By working together, educators, students, families, and communities can help protect all individuals with disabilities from discriminatory practices and ensure that the necessary supports and services are provided so that all students receive a FAPE. As a champion of America’s public schools, the NEA promotes solution-oriented advocacy, professional learning, and information to bring much-needed support and resources to students, educators, and their families.
Meeting the needs of students with disabilities
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Important Acronyms to Know
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Now is the Time to Fully Fund IDEA
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Students of Color with Disabilities Face Deep Inequities Made Worse by Pandemic
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Know Your Rights: Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
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Three Important Laws that Support Individuals with Disabilities
Disability Rights and Inclusion: Our Journey Toward Justice
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Words Matter: Disability Language Etiquette
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The Ford Foundation's Disability Justice Work
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Becoming a Champion for Disability Rights and Inclusion
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Recognizing Your Biases
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NEA Member Book Club
Resources for Educators
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Equity in Digital Instruction: Special Education
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Paraeducator and Other Education Support Professional Rights: In-Person Instruction and Other Student Supports
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Maximizing Student Success with Least Restrictive Environments and Appropriate Models of Inclusion
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Special Education Referral Process
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After Special Education Referrals
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Context for Teaching Students with Autism
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Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS)
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Accessibility to programs, courses, and services
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Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports
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Universal Design for Learning: An Introduction
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Applied Behavioral Analysis in the Classroom
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Meet the NEA Disability Rights Resource Cadre
Resources for Students, Families, and Communities
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Making Graduation Count for All Students
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What to Know About Invisible Disabilities
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Understanding Your Rights: Special Needs Programs
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