What Is the Federal Law That Protects Students in the Classroom?

Several kinds of federal legislation are designed to protect students at various levels of their education. Although school districts enjoy a significant amount of autonomy in deciding district policy, all district codes and regulations must conform to federal legislation.

Americans With Disabilities Act

One of the main pieces of legislation that protects students is Section 504 of the Americans with Disabilities Act. This legislation applies to students in elementary and high school and basically states that students with disabilities cannot be excluded from any school programs or activities that receive federal funding through the Department of Education solely on the basis of having a disability.

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, more commonly known as IDEA, mandates that students with disabilities, no matter how severe, are entitled to receive a free public education of comparable quality to that which students who are not disabled receive. This includes providing auxiliary educational services, such as student aids or special curriculums, to ensure that disabled students are receiving an equal education.

Sports Responsibility and Trust Act

The Sports Responsibility and Trust Act (SPARTA) was passed to protect student athletes against unethical practices by sports recruiting agents such as offering gift incentives, back dating contracts and having student athletes agree to contracts without disclosing all the necessary information. It was passed in 2004 and is enforced by the Federal Trade Commission.

Hate Crimes and Harrassment

Hate crimes, or violent acts against a student that result from the student's race, religion, sexual orientation or ethnic background, are also prohibited by federal law, according to the Department of Education's Office of Civil Rights' "Protecting Students from Harassment and Hate Crimes," a guide for writing school district policies.

Enforcement of Student Legislation

Federal legislation pertaining to students is enforced by the Department of Education's Office of Civil Rights. This organization determines who is protected under Section 504 (i.e., if the student qualifies as disabled under federal guidelines) and when violations occur. Section 504 is also known as the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

References

• Dept. of Education: Office of Civil Rights: Protecting Students with Disabilities
• Cure Search: What Laws Protect the rights of Students Who Have Undergone Treatment for Cancer?
• Law Journal Buffalo: State, Federal Laws Protect Student Athletes, Schools
• Dept. of Education: Protecting students from harrassment and hate crimes: A guide for schools