U.S. Supreme Court Ruling Eases Path for Students with Disabilities

On June 12, 2025, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously ruled in favor of Ava Tharpe, a Minnesota student with severe epilepsy, in the case of A.J.T. v. Osseo Area Schools. The Court determined that students alleging disability discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act are not required to prove "bad faith or gross misjudgment" by the school district. Instead, they need only demonstrate "deliberate indifference," aligning the standard with other disability discrimination cases.

This landmark decision overturns the Eighth Circuit Court's ruling, which had dismissed Tharpe's claims due to the higher standard of proof previously required. Chief Justice John Roberts emphasized that students with disabilities should not face more stringent legal hurdles than other plaintiffs.

Ava Tharpe, who experiences frequent morning seizures, required afternoon instruction to receive equal educational opportunities. Her previous school district in Kentucky accommodated this need, but upon moving to Osseo Area Schools in 2015, the district refused to provide instruction after noon, resulting in her receiving fewer instructional hours than her peers.

The Supreme Court's decision is expected to simplify the legal process for students with disabilities seeking accommodations, ensuring they have equal access to educational opportunities.

Disability rights organizations have lauded the Supreme Court's decision. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) stated, "This decision from a unanimous Supreme Court recognizes that all students with disabilities are entitled to an education free of disability discrimination." The National Disability Rights Network (NDRN) commented, "We applaud this monumental decision that affirms the ADA and Section 504 rights of students and sets a clear and widely recognized standard for pursuing these claims." The American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD) remarked, "The Supreme Court’s decision... is a major victory for students with disabilities and their families. The ruling sends a strong message that schools must be held accountable under all applicable federal disability laws."

This ruling marks a significant step forward in protecting the rights of students with disabilities, ensuring they have the necessary support to succeed in their educational pursuits.