We don't get many chances to celebrate these days, so we want to jump on it when the opportunity presents itself. Twenty years ago the Americans With Disabilities Act, known on campuses across the country as the ADA, was signed into law by President George H.W. Bush. Since then, the law has become a cornerstone of public policy, with politicians of both parties and all political stripes falling all over themselves to praise it. This is noteworthy, since implementation was expensive and filled with uncertainty as to the law's interpretation and scope.
Those who were teaching back then will recall discussions about "ADA Compliance" regarding how to handle students who presented themselves with disabilities. College officials worried about how they were going to pay for new ramps, elevators, braille readers, tutors, parking spaces, and other necessities. For the most part, however, it got done, and higher education is better for it.
It might be added that compliance also came at a time when distance education and technology burst upon the scene, allowing many handicapped students easier access to courses.
And let's not forget that returning veterans continue to arrive, with a host of special needs suited to their unique experiences. Undoubtedly there are challenges ahead.
Finally, if you ask teachers about their most rewarding experiences with students, you often hear stories about the heroism and persistence of individuals who managed to overcome obstacles once believed too overwhelming for success in college.
Here's the ADA home page, which can answer most questions about the law.
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