Book Description

This guide is intended to assist elementary and secondary schools as they plan compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), conduct required self-evaluation and transition plans, and make appropriate modifications. The eight chapters correspond with the regulations and include many worksheets and examples. Chapter 1 briefly discusses each of the ADA's titles, especially Title II which assures access to all programs and services provided by state and local government agencies. In Chapter 2 the emphasis is on the law's definition of a "qualified individual with a disability." Chapter 3 identifies action steps toward compliance and offers a three-phase process for completing self-evaluation planning. Chapter 4 reviews the general prohibitions against discrimination contained in Title II regulations, especially schools' obligation to provide a "free and appropriate public education." Chapter 5 explains ADA provisions concerning recruitment, hiring, and other employment-related issues. Program accessibility is the focus of Chapter 6. Chapter 7 explains Title II requirements for ensuring effective communication for persons with visual, hearing, and speech disabilities. Chapter 8 reviews the enforcement procedures for Title II and the remedies available if an institution is determined not to be in compliance. The last section identifies relevant sources of information. (DB)