PEOPLE IN NEED - THE AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT (ADA) - PART 1
- Moran Sciamama Saghiv
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
Disclaimer: The content of this blog post, authored by Dr. Moran Sciamama-Saghiv, is provided for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, dietary advice, or treatment. No doctor–patient relationship is created by reading or applying the information. Readers should always consult a licensed healthcare professional before making decisions related to medications, diet, exercise, or treatment. Neither the author nor any affiliated party assumes any liability for actions taken based on this content.
You might have heard about the Americans with Disabilities Act, or ADA, but do you know what it really means for people with disabilities? This law has changed the way society supports and includes individuals with disabilities, especially in education and public life. If you are a student or someone who wants to understand how the ADA can help, this post will guide you through what the ADA is, who it serves, and how you can access the services it offers.
What Is the Americans with Disabilities Act?
The Americans with Disabilities Act is a civil rights law passed in 1990. Its main goal is to prevent discrimination against people with disabilities. The ADA ensures that individuals with disabilities have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else. This includes access to jobs, schools, transportation, and public places. The law covers a wide range of disabilities, including physical, sensory, intellectual, and mental health conditions. It requires businesses, schools, and government agencies to make reasonable accommodations so that people with disabilities can participate fully in society.
Who Does the ADA Serve?
The ADA serves millions of Americans who have disabilities. This includes people who use wheelchairs, have vision or hearing impairments, chronic illnesses, learning disabilities, or mental health conditions. The law protects anyone who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. For students, this means that whether you have a visible disability like using a wheelchair or an invisible one like dyslexia or anxiety, the ADA is there to support your right to education and equal access.
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How the ADA Supports Students
Education is one of the key areas where the ADA makes a difference. Schools and colleges must provide accommodations and services to students with disabilities. These supports help remove barriers that might prevent students from learning or participating in school activities. These accommodations are designed to level the playing field so students can succeed based on their abilities, not limited by their disabilities. Some examples of accommodations include:
Extended time on tests and assignments
Note-taking assistance or access to lecture recordings
Accessible classrooms and buildings
Sign language interpreters or captioning services
Alternative formats for textbooks and materials
How Students Can Access ADA Services and Help
If you are a student with a disability, you have the right to request accommodations under the ADA. Here’s how you can access these services:
Identify Your Needs
Start by understanding what challenges you face in your learning environment. Think about what kind of support would help you perform your best. This might be extra time on exams, assistive technology, or physical access to classrooms.
Contact Your School’s Disability Services Office
Most schools have a dedicated office or coordinator for disability services. Reach out to them to learn about the process for requesting accommodations. They will guide you on what documentation you need to provide, such as medical records or evaluations.
Provide Documentation
You will likely need to submit proof of your disability. This documentation should come from a qualified professional and explain how your disability affects your learning. The disability services office uses this information to determine appropriate accommodations.
Develop an Accommodation Plan
Once your needs are assessed, the school will work with you to create a plan. This plan outlines the specific accommodations you will receive. It is important to communicate openly with your instructors and disability services to ensure your needs are met.
Use Your Accommodations
Make sure to use the accommodations provided. If you find that something is not working or you need additional support, contact the disability services office again. Your plan can be adjusted as needed.
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Examples of ADA in Action for Students
These examples show how the ADA helps students overcome barriers and succeed in their education.
A college student with a hearing impairment receives a sign language interpreter for lectures and captioned videos for online classes.
A high school student with ADHD gets extra time on tests and a quiet room to take exams.
A university provides wheelchair ramps and accessible restrooms to ensure physical access for students with mobility challenges.
Why the ADA Matters to You
Whether you have a disability or know someone who does, the ADA is a powerful tool for inclusion. It helps create environments where everyone can participate fully and fairly. For students, this means better access to education, which opens doors to future opportunities. If you are a student with a disability, don’t hesitate to seek out the support you deserve. The ADA is there to protect your rights and help you succeed.
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