

554- Are My Student’s ADHD Accommodations in Danger? Fallout from the Department of Education Changes
16 snips May 14, 2025
Mary J. Goodwin-Oquendo, a prominent disability civil rights attorney and law professor, discusses the recent upheavals in the U.S. Department of Education that threaten ADHD accommodations. She highlights the significance of understanding updates to IEPs and 504 Plans, and stresses the need for effective advocacy in protecting students’ rights. The conversation explores the legal safeguards under IDEA and the critical role of public awareness and community engagement in ensuring that educational support remains robust amid changing policies.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
IDEA's Structured Educational Framework
- The IDEA provides a structured framework ensuring free and appropriate public education for eligible students with disabilities from birth to age 21.
- It includes detailed categories, program parts, and oversight mechanisms creating stability across administrations.
Section 504's Broad Coverage
- Section 504 offers broad protections against disability discrimination in any federally funded program, applying to all educational levels.
- It complements IDEA but has less detailed statutory language, relying heavily on agency regulations for enforcement.
Federal Law Sets Minimum Standards
- Federal laws set the baseline, so state laws less protective than 504 regulations don't excuse noncompliance.
- Federal regulations and statutes often act as the minimum standard schools must meet.