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Protecting Students

Learn about the federal laws prohibiting discrimination in educational settings that receive funding from the Department.

Learn the types of discrimination students may face in an educational setting and how you can work to prevent or mitigate the effects of this discrimination.

Protecting Students Overview

The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) enforces several federal civil rights laws that prohibit discrimination in programs or activities.

Specific Illnesses and Medical Conditions

The protections of Section 504 and Title II apply to people with and illness or medical condition.

Equal Educational Opportunities for English Learners

Students whose primary language is not English may require language supports in order to meaningfully participate in school.

Boy Scouts of America Equal Access Act

No school can deny equal access or discriminate against, any group officially affiliated with the Boy Scouts of America.

Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)

Students with disabilities have the same right to K-12 public education that students without disabilities have.

Post-Secondary Academic Adjustments and Auxiliary Aids/Services

Students with disabilities meeting the academic and technical standards for admission to a postsecondary education may receive academic modifications.

Equal Rights to Public Education

Citizenship or immigration status of students, parents, or guardians cannot be used to bar students from public schools.

Sex Discrimination Issues

Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 prohibits discrimination based on sex in education.

Pregnancy or Parental Status

Title IX prohibits a school from discriminating against a student based on the student’s pregnancy, childbirth, or termination of pregnancy.

Woman and Athletics

Title IX has dramatically increased athletic opportunities for girls and women in federally funded elementary school environments.

Resources for LGBTQI+ Students

OCR enforces civil rights laws to protect all students from unlawful discrimination and harassment.

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Office of Communications and Outreach (OCO)
Page Last Reviewed:
September 26, 2024