A student with Tourette syndrome performing at grade level is covered under which law?

A student with Tourette syndrome who is performing at grade level is covered under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. This law provides protections for individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have access to an education that meets their needs. Section 504 is particularly focused on preventing discrimination against students with disabilities and requires that schools provide accommodations and modifications to support their access to the general educational curriculum.

Since the student is performing at grade level, they may not require special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which is geared towards students who need specialized instruction. However, they may still experience challenges related to their condition that impact their school experience, necessitating accommodations under Section 504.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is applicable more broadly to various aspects of public life, including education, but Section 504 specifically addresses educational settings. The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) focuses on K-12 education reform and accountability, which does not directly pertain to the accommodations for students with disabilities. Thus, Section 504 is the most appropriate law in this context for a student with Tourette syndrome.