The Supreme Court unanimously ruled that students alleging disability discrimination in schools need only prove 'deliberate indifference' rather than a higher standard like 'bad faith,' affirming a lower threshold for disability rights cases and allowing a teenage girl with epilepsy to pursue her claim against a Minnesota school district.
Students at James Madison High School in Houston, Texas, protested against a new cellphone policy that requires them to turn in their phones to staff during the school day and pick them up at the end of the day, with the superintendent warning of possible suspensions for protesting students. The policy was implemented to address safety concerns related to recording and sharing fights on campus, but students argue that it infringes on their rights and creates an oppressive environment.
A Newton mother has filed a lawsuit to end a week-long teachers union strike that has kept schools closed, citing interference with her children's right to a public education. The strike has affected her children's access to Individualized Education Program support, hockey, and ski club activities. The union submitted a contract proposal, which was ultimately rejected by the school committee, leading to ongoing negotiations.
Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes is warning families about the potential rights forfeited when using the state's "Empower Scholarship Accounts" (ESA vouchers) for private schools. Families using ESA funds give up guaranteed and free public education for children with disabilities, as well as the right to access their child's educational records. Mayes emphasizes that families should not be denied admission or expelled from private schools due to a child's disabilities. The state superintendent of public instruction, Tom Horne, assures that special education students receive the same funding as they would in traditional public schools and steps are being taken to prevent fraud. However, families are encouraged to be aware of their rights before leaving the public school system.