Know Your Rights. Take Action.
Federal law gives every student with dyslexia, ADHD, and other learning differences the right to a free appropriate public education. Find advocates, understand the law, and connect with organizations working to change it.
Three major federal laws protect students with dyslexia, ADHD, and other learning differences in school settings. Understanding which law applies(and what it requires)is the first step toward getting appropriate support.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
IDEA is the primary law governing special education in the United States. It requires public schools to provide eligible students with a free, appropriate public education (FAPE) in the least restrictive environment (LRE) through an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
- Covers birth through age 21
- Requires a multidisciplinary evaluation at no cost to families
- Mandates parental participation in IEP development
- Includes procedural safeguards and dispute resolution rights
- Dyslexia qualifies under Specific Learning Disability (SLD) category
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act
Section 504 is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in programs receiving federal funding, including all public schools. It provides accommodations for students who do not qualify for an IEP but still need support.
- Broader eligibility than IDEA, covers more students
- Provides a 504 Plan with classroom accommodations
- Covers students through college and into employment
- No requirement for specialized instruction, focuses on access
- Common accommodations: extended time, preferred seating, audio books
Americans with Disabilities Act
The ADA prohibits disability discrimination in all areas of public life, including public schools (Title II) and places of public accommodation (Title III). It works alongside Section 504 in educational settings and extends protections into adulthood, including the workplace.
- Applies to state and local government entities (Title II)
- Covers public colleges and universities
- Requires reasonable accommodations in employment (Title I)
- No federal funding requirement, broader reach than Section 504
- Protects adults with dyslexia in hiring and workplace settings
State Dyslexia Screening & Literacy Laws
In addition to federal protections, most states have passed laws specifically addressing dyslexia, including early screening mandates, structured literacy requirements, and teacher training standards. These vary significantly by state.
- More than 40 states have passed dyslexia-specific legislation
- Many require universal screening in kindergarten or first grade
- Some states mandate structured literacy instruction
- State laws often define "dyslexia" in statute for the first time
- Explore your state's laws →
Key Terms to Know
Free Appropriate Public Education, the right of every eligible student with a disability to receive special education and related services at no cost, tailored to their individual needs.
Individualized Education Program, a legally binding document outlining a student's present levels, annual goals, services, accommodations, and placement. Developed by a team including parents.
Least Restrictive Environment, the requirement that students with disabilities be educated alongside non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate.
A written document the school must provide whenever it proposes or refuses to take action regarding a student's identification, evaluation, or placement. Request one in writing for any significant decision.
Additional services a student may be entitled to when a school has failed to provide FAPE. Must be negotiated with the district or ordered through due process.
A formal dispute resolution procedure under IDEA where families can challenge school decisions. An impartial hearing officer reviews evidence and issues a binding decision.