Take a moment to review the following links regarding Transition of Students with Disabilities to Postsecondary Education by the Education Department. Also review, Students with Disabilities Preparing for Postsecondary Education: Know Your Rights.
The laws that govern disability support services differ between secondary and postsecondary education as viewed below:
Legal Rights and Responsibilities
| K - 12 Entitlements | Post-Secondary: Civil Rights | |
|---|---|---|
| Regulations | Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) Section 504 (subsection D) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 |
Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) Section 504 (subsection E) of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 |
| Intent | To provide a free appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment. | To ensure access to the educational program for persons otherwise qualified to meet the standards of the college. |
| Identification | Schools are responsible for identifying, evaluating and classifying students. | Students are responsible for self-identifying and providing appropriate documentation. |
| Educational Plan | Schools are responsible for creating an individualized educational program (IEP). | IEP/504 Plan from high school does not continue into college. An accommodation plan must be developed with the college. |
| Service Provision | Schools provide special education program and services as part of student’s schedule. | No special education. Accommodations are available for students who choose to use them. |
| Advocacy | Parents and school personnel advocate for the student. | Students are self-advocates. Parents are not actively involved. |
Links:
IDEA Law
Section 504