Skip to main content

Resources

The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) works to ensure equal access to education and to promote educational excellence throughout the Nation through vigorous enforcement of civil rights laws. In accordance with this mission, OCR issues resources that provide information about the laws over which it has jurisdiction. Learn about different types of guidance documents, including how to comment on significant guidance. Below, in chronological order, are resources related to race and national origin discrimination, sex discrimination, disability discrimination, age discrimination, and multi-jurisdictional information.

Date Resource

Race, Color, or National Origin Discrimination Resources

January 2025 

Resolving a Hostile Environment Under Title VI: Discrimination Based on Race, Color, or National Origin, Including Shared Ancestry or Ethnic Characteristics  

This resource assists school communities in understanding their obligations under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI) and discusses some considerations for schools when taking action to remediate a hostile environment under Title VI. The existence of a hostile environment based on race, color, or national origin that is created, encouraged, accepted, tolerated, or left uncorrected by a school can constitute discrimination in violation of Title VI. When a school is taking action to remediate a hostile environment, just as when taking any other action, Title VI prohibits the school from discriminating against students on the basis of race, color, or national origin.

 

  • Resolving a Hostile Environment Under Title VI: Discrimination Based on Race, Color, or National Origin, Including Shared Ancestry or Ethnic Characteristics (January 2025) (PDF)(408K)
November 2024 

Equal Access to Elementary and Secondary Education for Students Who Are English Learners with Disabilities 

This fact sheet explains the legal requirements that schools must follow to ensure equal access to elementary and secondary education for students who are English Learners with disabilities. It also identifies practices that could, depending on facts and circumstances, raise concerns under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

 

  • Equal Access to Elementary and Secondary Education for Students Who Are English Learners with Disabilities  PDF (236K)
    • En español (Spanish) PDF  (203K)
July 2024 

Fact Sheet: Harassment based on Race, Color, or National Origin on School Campuses

This fact sheet highlights that in 1954 in Brown v. Board of Education, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously held that legally mandated racial segregation of children in public schools is unconstitutional. The fact sheet explains that student access to education and to educational resources, differs by race, color, and national origin in schools across the United States, and summarizes resources describing federal legal obligations to ensure that all students have equal access to education regardless of race, color, or national origin.

 

  • Fact Sheet: Harassment based on Race, Color, or National Origin on School Campuses  PDF (427K)
May 2024 

Fact Sheet: Ensuring Educational Opportunities for All Students on Equal Terms 70 Years After Brown v. Board of Education

This fact sheet highlights that in 1954 in Brown v. Board of Education, the U.S. Supreme Court unanimously held that legally mandated racial segregation of children in public schools is unconstitutional, The fact sheet explains that student access to education and to educational resources, differs by race, color, and national origin in schools across the United States. and summarizes resources describing federal legal obligations to ensure that all students have equal access to education regardless of race, color, or national origin.

 

  • Ensuring Educational Opportunities for All Students on Equal Terms 70 Years After Brown v. Board of Education  PDF (105K)
March 2024 

Dear Colleague Letter: Addressing Discrimination Against Muslim, Arab, Sikh, South Asian, Hindu, and Palestinian Students

This letter reminds schools of their legal obligation under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VI) and its implementing regulations to provide all students with a school environment free from discrimination based on race, color, or national origin, including shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics.

 

  • Dear Colleague Letter  PDF (235K)
    • En español (Spanish)   PDF (202K)
November 2023 

Dear Colleague Letter: Discrimination, including Harassment, Based on Shared Ancestry or Ethnic Characteristics

This Dear Colleague Letter is the latest in a series of recent guidance documents on this topic and a key component of the Biden-Harris Administration’s U.S. National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism and the forthcoming National Strategy to Counter Islamophobia and Related Forms of Bias and Discrimination.

 

  • Dear Colleague Letter  PDF (93K)
    • En español (Spanish)   PDF (200K)
August 2023 

Dear Colleague letter on Activities and Programs that Promote Racially Inclusive School Communities

This guidance clarifies the circumstances under which recipients of federal financial assistance from the Department can – consistent with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 – develop curricula or engage in activities that promote racially inclusive school communities, and the guidance includes examples to help school communities assess their Title VI legal obligations and protections.

 

  • Dear Colleague Letter  PDF (638K)
July 2023 

Supporting Educational Environments Free from Discrimination - A Resource Collection for Elementary and Secondary Schools 

This resource collection features a selection of OCR guidance and resources that may be useful to elementary and secondary schools throughout the school year. For each resource, you will find a brief description and a link to full information online.

 

  • K-12 Schools - ESE   PDF (699K)
July 2023 

Supporting Educational Environments Free from Discrimination - A Resource Collection for Postsecondary Institutions 

This resource collection features a selection of OCR guidance and resources that may be useful to postsecondary institutions throughout the academic year. For each resource, you will find a brief description and a link to full information online.

 

  • Postsecondary Institutions - PSE   PDF (605K)
June 2023 

Fact Sheet: Ensuring Meaningful Participation in Advanced Coursework and Specialized Programs for Students Who Are English Learners

The fact sheet explains the legal requirements that schools must follow to ensure that eligibility requirements and procedures for specialized or advanced educational programs do not screen out students who are English Learners (ELs) because of their limited English proficiency unless a program is demonstrated to require proficiency in English for meaningful participation.

 

  • U.S. Department of Education Office for Civil Rights, Ensuring Meaningful Participation in Advanced Coursework and Specialized Programs for Students Who Are English Learners (June 2023)  PDF (490K)
  • كیفیة تقدیم شكوى (Arabic)  PDF (325K)
  • 情况说明书 (Sim. Chinese)  PDF (283K)
  • 情況說明書 (Trad. Chinese)  PDF (303K)
  • فارسی (Farsi)  PDF (296K)
  • 한국어 (Korean)  PDF (235K)
  • پښتو (Pashto)  PDF (331K)
  • En español (Spanish)  PDF (283K)
June 2023 

Fact Sheets on Protecting Access to Education for Migratory and Unaccompanied Children

These fact sheets, jointly issued by the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights and the U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division, highlight specific challenges some migratory children and unaccompanied children may face while accessing public education, explain where families can seek help, and remind public schools of their responsibilities to migratory and unaccompanied children under federal civil rights laws.

 

  • Protecting Access to Education for Migratory Children  PDF (257K)
    • كیفیة تقدیم شكوى (Arabic)  PDF (652K)
    • 情况说明书 (Sim. Chinese)  PDF (277K)
    • 情況說明書 (Trad. Chinese)  PDF (278K)
    • فارسی (Farsi)  PDF (702K)
    • K'iche' (Kiche) Audio
    • K’iche’ (K’iche’)  PDF (282K)
    • 한국어 (Korean)  PDF (365K)
    • Mam (Mam) Audio
    • Mam (Mam)  PDF (239K)
    • پښتو (Pashto)  PDF (681K)
    • Af-Soomaali (Somali)  PDF (227K)
    • En español (Spanish)  PDF (219K)
    • Tagalog (Tagalog)  PDF (263K)
    • Việt-ngữ (Vietnamese)  PDF (331K)
    • kreyòl ayisyen (Haitian Creole)  PDF (258K)
  • Protecting Access to Education for Unaccompanied Children  PDF (225K)
    • كیفیة تقدیم شكوى (Arabic)  PDF (800K)
    • 情况说明书 (Sim. Chinese)  PDF (295K)
    • 情況說明書 (Trad. Chinese)  PDF (332K)
    • فارسی (Farsi)  PDF (581K)
    • K'iche' (Kiche) Audio (4.2 MB)
    • K’iche’ (K’iche’)  PDF (232K)
    • 한국어 (Korean)  PDF (328K)
    • Mam (Mam) Audio (4.1 MB)
    • Mam (Mam)  PDF (239K)
    • پښتو (Pashto)  PDF (669K)
    • Af-Soomaali (Somali)  PDF (277K)
    • En español (Spanish)  PDF (223K)
    • Tagalog (Tagalog)  PDF (267K)
    • Việt-ngữ (Vietnamese)  PDF (354K)
    • kreyòl ayisyen (Haitian Creole)  PDF (262K)
May 2023 

Resource on Confronting Racial Discrimination in Student Discipline

This resource, jointly issued by the Departments of Education (ED) and Justice (DOJ), includes examples of investigations of discrimination based on race, color, or national origin in student discipline in pre-K to 12th grade.

 

  • Resource on Confronting Racial Discrimination in Student Discipline  PDF (1.06M)
  • En español (Spanish)  PDF (1.06M)

 

January 2023 

Fact Sheet: Diversity & Inclusion Activities Under Title VI

This fact sheet confirms for educators, parents, and students that diversity, equity, and inclusion training and similar activities generally are consistent with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

 

  • Fact Sheet  PDF (185K)
  • En español (Spanish)  PDF (160K)
  • العربيّة (Arabic) PDF (254K)
  • 情况说明书 (Sim. Chinese)  PDF (364K)
  • 情況說明書 (Trad. Chinese)  PDF (302K)
  • 한국어 (Korean)  PDF (220K)
  • Tagalog (Tagalog)  PDF (145K)
  • Việt-ngữ (Vietnamese)  PDF (368K)

 

January 2023 

Fact Sheet: Protecting Students from Discrimination Based on Shared Ancestry or Ethnic Characteristics

This fact sheet shares information about protections for all students, including students belonging to any religious group, from discrimination under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 based on shared ancestry or ethnic characteristics.

 

  • Fact Sheet: Protecting Students from Discrimination Based on Shared Ancestry or Ethnic Characteristics  PDF (297K)
    • شكوى (Arabic)  PDF (266K)
    • فارسی (Farsi)  PDF (277K)
    • ਪੰਜਾਬੀ (Punjabi)  PDF (283K)
    • Af-Soomaali (Somali)  PDF (304K)
    • En español (Spanish)  PDF (319K)
    • اردو (Urdu)  PDF (300K)
    • יידיש(Yiddish)  PDF (314K)

 

August 2021 

Fact Sheet: Confronting Discrimination Based on National Origin and Immigration Status

This fact sheet shares information about public elementary and secondary schools’ obligations to enroll all children, regardless of national origin or immigration status, and to provide language assistance services to English learners.

Fact Sheet: Confronting Discrimination Based on National Origin and Immigration Status  PDF (534K)
En español PDF (557K)
情况说明书 (Sim. Chinese) PDF (175K)
情況說明書 (Trad. Chinese) PDF (197K)
العربيّة (Arabic) PDF (223K)
Việt-ngữ (Vietnamese) PDF (616K)
Af-Soomaali (Somali) PDF (611K)
kreyòl ayisyen (Haitian Creole) PDF (585K)
فارسی (Dari) PDF (420K)
پښتو (Pashto) PDF (355K)

 

May 2021 

Fact Sheet: Confronting COVID-19-Related Harassment in Schools

This fact sheet, a resource for students and families, shares information about schools’ obligation to investigate and address discrimination, including harassment, targeting students because of their race or national origin.

Fact Sheet: Confronting COVID-19-Related Harassment in Schools  PDF (507K)
情况说明书 (Sim. Chinese)  PDF (943K)
情況說明書 (Trad. Chinese)  PDF (646K)
한국어 (Korean)  PDF (571K)
Tagalog (Tagalog)  PDF (488K)
Việt-ngữ (Vietnamese)  PDF (464K)

 

June 2016 

Fact Sheet: Combating Discrimination Against Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) and Muslim, Arab, Sikh, and South Asian (MASSA) Students

Fact Sheet: Combating Discrimination Against Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) and Muslim, Arab, Sikh, and South Asian (MASSA) Students  PDF (239.29K)

July 2012 

Title VI Enforcement Highlights Office for Civil Rights

Title VI Enforcement Highlights Office for Civil Rights  PDF (1.26M)

(Revised January 2011) 

Ensuring Equal Access To High-Quality Education

This resource provides an overview of the legal responsibilities of the Office for Civil Rights and how they are carried out by resolving discrimination complaints, conducting compliance reviews, and providing technical assistance. There is also information on the impact of the civil rights laws in improving educational opportunities for students.

2010 

How to File a Discrimination Complaint With the Office for Civil Rights

This resource provides information on how to file a complaint for anyone who believes that an education institution that receives federal financial assistance has discriminated against someone on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age, or who believes that a public elementary or secondary school, or state or local education agency has violated the Boy Scouts of America Equal Access Act, may file a complaint.

(Revised September 2004) 

Office for Civil Rights: Ensuring Equal Access To High-Quality Education

This resource provides an overview of the legal responsibilities of the Office for Civil Rights and how they are carried out by resolving discrimination complaints, conducting compliance reviews, and providing technical assistance. There is also information on the impact of the civil rights laws in improving educational opportunities for students.

2000 

Regulations for Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964

Non-discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin in education programs and activities receiving or benefiting from Federal financial assistance. These regulations were published by the Department of Education and codified at codified at 34 CFR Part 100, as amended, 65 Fed. Reg. 68050 (November 13, 2000).

1999 

Impact of the Civil Rights Laws

This resource describes the impact of the civil rights laws, and other efforts at the national, state, and local level, in bringing about improved educational opportunities for millions of students attending our elementary and secondary schools and colleges and universities.

1994 

Racial Harassment / OCR Investigative Guidance

Racial Incidents and Harassment Against Students at Educational Institutions; Investigative Guidance. Investigative guidance on the procedures and analysis that OCR staff will follow when investigating issues of racial incidents and harassment against student at educational institutions. This guidance was published in the Federal Register, Vol. 59, No. 47 (Mar. 10, 1994).

1994 

Notice of final policy guidance. Nondiscrimination in Federally assisted programs

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. The final policy guidance discusses the applicability of the statutes' and regulations' nondiscrimination requirement to student financial aid that is awarded, at least in part, on the basis of race or national origin. This guidance was originally published in the Federal Register, Vol. 59, No. 36 (Feb. 23, 1994).

1994 

Notice of application of Supreme Court Decision in United States v. Fordice

The notice describes the effect of the Supreme Court's decision on the U.S. Department of Education enforcement policies under Title VI and was published at 59 Fed. Reg. 4271 (Jan. 31, 1994).

1992 

Placement of School Children with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. (Code No. 14)

This resource summarizes the requirements pertaining to counseling practices contained in the regulations implementing Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of Education Amendments of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

1991 

The Guidance Counselor's Role in Ensuring Equal Educational Opportunity. (Code No. 23)

This resource summarizes the requirements pertaining to counseling practices contained in the regulations implementing Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of Education Amendments of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

1991 

Non-Discrimination in Employment Practices in Education (Code No. 12)

This resource summarizes the employment requirements under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Sex Discrimination Resources

February 2023 

Resources on Title IX & Athletic Opportunities

These resources share information about how students, parents, coaches, athletic directors, and school officials can evaluate whether a school is meeting its obligation to provide equal athletic opportunity regardless of sex consistent with Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972.

  • Supporting Equal Opportunity in School Athletic Programs  PDF (243K)
  • Title IX and Athletic Opportunities in K-12 Schools  PDF (378K)
  • Title IX and Athletic Opportunities in Colleges and Universities  PDF (421K)
October 2022 

Discrimination Based on Pregnancy and Related Conditions - A Resource for Students and Schools

The resource reminds school communities, including students, faculty, families, and educators, that Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 protects students and employees from discrimination based on pregnancy and related conditions.

  • Discrimination Based on Pregnancy and Related Conditions - A Resource for Students and Schools (English)  PDF (130K)
October 2021 

Fact Sheet: Supporting Intersex Students

This fact sheet, a resource for students, families, and educators, shares information about how schools can support the dignity, safety, and well-being of intersex students.

  • Fact Sheet: Supporting Intersex Students (English)  PDF (486K)

En español  PDF (158K)

June 2021 

Fact Sheet: Confronting Anti-LGBTQI+ Harassment in Schools

This fact sheet, a resource for students and families, shares information about schools’ obligation to investigate and address discrimination, including harassment, against students because of their sexual orientation or gender identity.

A Federal court has “vacate[d]” this document and “enjoined” the Department from “implementing or enforcing” this document against the state of Texas and its respective schools, school boards, and other public, educationally based institutions. See State of Texas v. Cardona, No. 4:23-cv-604 (N.D. Tex.) (June 11, 2024). Pursuant to a different Federal court order, the Department has been preliminarily “enjoined and restrained from implementing” this document against the states of Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, South Carolina, South Dakota, and West Virginia. See State of Tenn., et al. v. U.S. Dep’t of Educ., No. 3:21cv-308 (E.D. Tenn.) (July 15, 2022).

  • Fact Sheet: Confronting Anti-LGBTQI+ Harassment in Schools (English)  PDF (335K)En español  PDF (1.2M)
June 2013 

Resource: Supporting the Academic Success of Pregnant and Parenting Students Under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972

This resource clarifies the specific requirements of Title IX applicable to pregnant and parenting students. The resource contains a FAQ section that explains the Title IX requirements and provides examples to ensure that schools understand their obligations and pregnant and parenting students understand their rights under Title IX. The resource also provides information on strategies that educators may use and programs schools can develop to address the educational needs of students who become pregnant or have children. It also provides examples of promising practices designed to support pregnant and parenting students that schools may choose to implement.

June 2012 

Title IX Enforcement Highlights Office for Civil Rights

  • Title IX Enforcement Highlights Office for Civil Rights  PDF (948K)
(Revised January 2011) 

Ensuring Equal Access To High-Quality Education

This resource provides an overview of the legal responsibilities of the Office for Civil Rights and how they are carried out by resolving discrimination complaints, conducting compliance reviews, and providing technical assistance. There is also information on the impact of the civil rights laws in improving educational opportunities for students.

2010 

How to File a Discrimination Complaint With the Office for Civil Rights

This resource provides information on how to file a complaint for anyone who believes that an education institution that receives federal financial assistance has discriminated against someone on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age, or who believes that a public elementary or secondary school, or state or local education agency has violated the Boy Scouts of America Equal Access Act, may file a complaint.

(Revised 2008) 

Sexual Harassment: It's Not Academic (Code No. 16)

This resource addresses issues of sexual harassment of students by school employees, other students, and non-employee third parties. It is intended for use by school administrators and other employees in understanding a school's obligations under Title IX, and by students and their parents in understanding student rights in this area. The resource answers questions about sexual harassment, including how to recognize, respond to, and prevent sexual harassment. It also provides information about how to file a complaint with OCR.

  • Sexual Harassment: It's Not Academic resource  PDF (10M)
1999 

Impact of the Civil Rights Laws

This resource describes the impact of the civil rights laws, and other efforts at the national, state, and local level, in bringing about improved educational opportunities for millions of students attending our elementary and secondary schools and colleges and universities.

(Revised 1998) 

Title IX and Sex Discrimination (Code No. 6)

This resource summarizes the requirements pertaining to Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which protects people from discrimination based on sex in education programs or activities which receive Federal financial assistance from the Department of Education.

 

  • El Título IX Y La Discriminación Por Sexo PDF (2M)
1992 

Placement of School Children with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. (Code No. 14)

This resource summarizes the requirements pertaining to counseling practices contained in the regulations implementing Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of Education Amendments of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

1991 

Equal Opportunity in Intercollegiate Athletics

This resource summarizes Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex in education programs receiving Federal financial assistance from the Department. Athletics is considered an integral part of an institution's education program and is therefore covered by this law.

1991 

The Guidance Counselor's Role in Ensuring Equal Educational Opportunity

This resource summarizes the requirements pertaining to counseling practices contained in the regulations implementing Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of Education Amendments of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

1991 

Non-Discrimination in Employment Practices in Education (Code No. 12)

This resource summarizes the employment requirements under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Disability Discrimination Resources

December 2024 

Fact Sheets Addressing Certain Mental Health Conditions 

The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has issued four fact sheets on the disability-related rights of students with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), migraine, narcolepsy, and stuttering. Each fact sheet describes the medical condition, explains how the medical condition may affect a student at school, and provides examples of the steps schools may be required to take to address the needs of a student whose medical condition substantially limits one or more of their major life activities. Each fact sheet also discusses remedies that may be necessary if a school does not appropriately address the needs of a student with a disability because of the medical condition.

 

  • Fact Sheet: Section 504 Protections for Students with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) PDF (271K)
  • Fact Sheet: Section 504 Protections for Students with Migraine PDF (276K)
  • Fact Sheet: Section 504 Protections for Students with Narcolepsy PDF (237K)
  • Fact Sheet: Section 504 Protections for Students who Stutter PDF (237K)
September 2024 

Fact Sheets Addressing Certain Mental Health Conditions 

The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has issued four fact sheets on the disability-related rights of students with anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, and eating disorders. Each fact sheet describes the mental health condition, explains how the mental health condition may affect a student at school, and provides examples of the steps schools may be required to take to address the needs of a student whose mental health condition substantially limits one or more of their major life activities. Each fact sheet also discusses remedies that may be necessary if a school does not appropriately address the needs of a student with a disability because of the mental health condition.

 

  • Fact Sheet: Section 504 Protections for Students with Anxiety Disorders PDF (253K)
  • Fact Sheet: Section 504 Protections for Students with Bipolar Disorder PDF (257K)
  • Fact Sheet: Section 504 Protections for Students with Depression PDF (274K)
  • Fact Sheet: Section 504 Protections for Students with Eating Disorders PDF (252K)
(June 2024) 

Fact Sheets Addressing Certain Medical Conditions

The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has issued three fact sheets on the disability-related rights of students with sickle cell disease, epilepsy, and cancer. Each fact sheet describes the medical condition, explains how the medical condition may affect a student at school, and provides examples of the steps schools may be required to take to address the needs of a student whose medical condition substantially limits one or more of their major life activities. Each fact sheet also discusses remedies that may be necessary if a school does not appropriately address the needs of a student with a disability because of the medical condition.

Fact Sheet: Section 504 Protections for Students with Cancer  PDF (238K)
Fact Sheet: Section 504 Protections for Students with Epilepsy  PDF (240K)
Fact Sheet: Section 504 Protections for Students with Sickle Cell Disease  PDF (239K)

(February 2024) 

Fact Sheets Addressing Certain Medical Conditions

The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has issued four fact sheets on the disability-related rights of students with asthma, diabetes, food allergies, and gastroesophageal reflux (GER) or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Each fact sheet describes the medical condition, explains how the medical condition may affect a student at school, and provides examples of the steps schools may be required to take to address the needs of a student whose medical condition substantially limits one or more of their major life activities. Each fact sheet also discusses remedies that may be necessary if a school does not appropriately address the needs of a student with a disability because of the medical condition.

Fact Sheet: Section 504 Protections for Students with Asthma  PDF (233K)
Fact Sheet: Section 504 Protections for Students with Diabetes  PDF (235K)
Fact Sheet: Section 504 Protections for Students with Food Allergies  PDF (262K)
Fact Sheet: Section 504 Protections for Students with GER or GERD  PDF (233K)

(May 2023) 

Dear Colleague Letter on Postsecondary Online Accessibility

The Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) have issued a dear colleague letter regarding the Departments’ ongoing efforts to address barriers that prevent people with disabilities from participating in online services, programs, and activities that colleges, universities, and other postsecondary institutions make available to students and the public. The letter describes current online accessibility challenges, highlights recent DOJ and OCR enforcement actions that have improved online accessibility at postsecondary institutions across the country, and provides resources about Federal laws that protect the rights of students with disabilities.

“Dear Colleague” Letter  PDF (301K)

(July 2022) 

Supporting Students with Disabilities and Avoiding the Discriminatory Use of Student Discipline Under Section 504

The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has issued a fact sheet that provides a brief overview of guidance on the rights of public school students with disabilities, including behavioral disabilities, at the elementary and secondary education level, to nondiscrimination on the basis of disability, under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, in the context of discipline. The fact sheet is intended to help educators, administrators, parents, students, and other stakeholders better understand how compliance with Section 504 requirements to provide a free appropriate public education to students with disabilities can result in schools’ providing effective services and behavioral supports to address student behavior that is based on a student’s disability and could otherwise lead to discipline.

Fact Sheet PDF (299K)   [OCR-000134]

(May 2022) 

Disability-Related Rights of Student Veterans with Disabilities

The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) issued a Frequently Asked Questions document on the disability-related rights of student veterans with disabilities in higher education. Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, colleges and universities that receive federal funds are required to provide appropriate academic adjustments to qualified student veterans with disabilities to ensure they are afforded an equal opportunity to achieve academic success. Student veterans with a disability, as defined under Section 504, are entitled to disability civil rights protections regardless of whether the military or U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has determined that these veterans have a total or partial disability.

FAQs on the Disability-Related Rights of Student Veterans with Disabilities  PDF (159K)

En español (Spanish)  PDF (474K)

(February 2022) 

Providing Students with Disabilities Free Appropriate Public Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Addressing the Need for Compensatory Services Under Section 504

The Office for Civil Rights (OCR) released a fact sheet reminding schools of their obligation to ensure free appropriate public education (FAPE) under Section 504 for students with disabilities during the pandemic, including schools’ responsibilities to provide compensatory services. Even with the unique challenges the COVID-19 pandemic presents, students with disabilities retain their right to FAPE under Section 504. If a student with a disability did not receive appropriate evaluations or services, then it must be determined whether, and to what extent, compensatory services are required.

Fact Sheet: Providing Students with Disabilities Free Appropriate Public Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Addressing the Need for Compensatory Services Under Section 504  PDF (294.6K)

(October 2021) 

Supporting and Protecting the Rights of Students at Risk of Self-Harm in the Era of COVID-19

This fact sheet, issued jointly with the Civil Rights Division of the U.S. Department of Justice, shares information about students’ rights. Specifically, it discusses students’ right to be free from discrimination on the basis of mental health disability and to receive the services, reasonable modifications, or academic adjustments they may need, in accordance with Section 504 and the ADA, as applicable. It also provides resources to aid schools in supporting students who may be at risk for self-harm.

Fact Sheet: Supporting and Protecting the Rights of Students at Risk of Self-Harm in the Era of COVID-19  PDF (661K)

(October 2012) 

504 Disability Rights Enforcement Highlights

504 Disability Rights Enforcement Highlights  PDF (1.1M)

(Revisión: Enero del 2012) 

Estudiantes con discapacidades preparandose para la educación postsecundaria: Conozca sus derechos y responsabilidades

Este panfleto contiene información para estudiantes con discapacidades que planean continuar con estudios superiores. (Spanish version of "Students with Disabilities Preparing for Postsecondary Education")

(Revised September 2011) 

Students with Disabilities Preparing for Postsecondary Education: Know Your Rights and Responsibilities

This resource contains information for high school students with disabilities who plan to continue their education in postsecondary schools. A Spanish version also is available (see Spanish version of "Students with Disabilities Preparing for Postsecondary Education: Know Your Rights and Responsibilities").

(Revised March 2011) 

Transition of Students with Disabilities to Postsecondary Education: A Guide for High School Educators

This document provides high school educators with answers to questions students with disabilities may have as they prepare to move to the postsecondary education environment.

(Revised January 2011) 

Ensuring Equal Access To High-Quality Education

This resource provides an overview of the legal responsibilities of the Office for Civil Rights and how they are carried out by resolving discrimination complaints, conducting compliance reviews, and providing technical assistance. There is also information on the impact of the civil rights laws in improving educational opportunities for students.

(Revised August 2010) 

Student Placement in Elementary and Secondary Schools and Section 504 and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (Code No. 19)

This publication explains Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Title II of the Americans With Disabilities Act and how they affect student placement in elementary and secondary schools. It also explains evaluation and placement procedures, the educational setting, reevaluations, the individualized education program, procedural safeguards, and nonacademic services and activities.

2010 

How to File a Discrimination Complaint With the Office for Civil Rights

This resource provides information on how to file a complaint for anyone who believes that an education institution that receives federal financial assistance has discriminated against someone on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age, or who believes that a public elementary or secondary school, or state or local education agency has violated the Boy Scouts of America Equal Access Act, may file a complaint.

(Revised September 2007) 

Free Appropriate Public Education for Students with Disabilities: Requirements Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

This resource answers the following questions about FAPE: Who is entitled to a free appropriate public education? How is an appropriate education defined? How is a free education defined?

1999 

Impact of the Civil Rights Laws

This resource describes the impact of the civil rights laws, and other efforts at the national, state, and local level, in bringing about improved educational opportunities for millions of students attending our elementary and secondary schools and colleges and universities.

1998 

Auxiliary Aids and Services for Postsecondary Students with Disabilities: Higher Education's Obligations Under Section 504 and Title II of the ADA

This resource reviews the obligations of higher education institutions to serve students with disabilities. This resource also includes answers to questions commonly asked by students and representatives of postsecondary institutions.

1995 

The Civil Rights of Students with Hidden Disabilities Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Code No. 22)

This resource answers questions about the civil rights of students with hidden disabilities and the responsibilities of ED recipients.

1992 

Placement of School Children with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (Code No. 14)

This resource describes the requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended, with respect to elementary and secondary school policies involving the placement of children with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS).

1991 

The Americans with Disabilities Act

This resource, published by the Department of Justice (DOJ), contains a brief overview of the Americans with Disabilities Act and lists contact information.

1991 

The Guidance Counselor's Role in Ensuring Equal Educational Opportunity

This resource summarizes the requirements pertaining to counseling practices contained in the regulations implementing Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of Education Amendments of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

1991 

Non-Discrimination in Employment Practices in Education (Code No. 12)

This resource summarizes the employment requirements under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Age Discrimination Resources

(Revised January 2011) 

Ensuring Equal Access To High-Quality Education

This resource provides an overview of the legal responsibilities of the Office for Civil Rights and how they are carried out by resolving discrimination complaints, conducting compliance reviews, and providing technical assistance. There is also information on the impact of the civil rights laws in improving educational opportunities for students.

2010 

How to File a Discrimination Complaint With the Office for Civil Rights

This resource provides information on how to file a complaint for anyone who believes that an education institution that receives federal financial assistance has discriminated against someone on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age, or who believes that a public elementary or secondary school, or state or local education agency has violated the Boy Scouts of America Equal Access Act, may file a complaint.

1999 

Impact of the Civil Rights Laws

This resource describes the impact of the civil rights laws, and other efforts at the national, state, and local level, in bringing about improved educational opportunities for millions of students attending our elementary and secondary schools and colleges and universities.

Boy Scouts of America Equal Access Act Discrimination Resources

(Revised January 2011)

 

 

 

Ensuring Equal Access To High-Quality Education

This resource provides an overview of the legal responsibilities of the Office for Civil Rights and how they are carried out by resolving discrimination complaints, conducting compliance reviews, and providing technical assistance. There is also information on the impact of the civil rights laws in improving educational opportunities for students.

2010

 

 

How to File a Discrimination Complaint With the Office for Civil Rights

This resource provides information on how to file a complaint for anyone who believes that an education institution that receives federal financial assistance has discriminated against someone on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age, or who believes that a public elementary or secondary school, or state or local education agency has violated the Boy Scouts of America Equal Access Act, may file a complaint.

Multi-Category Resources

(September 2024) These collections, for both elementary and secondary schools  PDF (726K) and postsecondary institutions  PDF (983K), are designed to assist in planning for a successful and equitable return to schools and campuses. They include fact sheets, Q&As, letters to educators, and other materials explaining the obligations that elementary, secondary, and postsecondary schools have under the federal civil rights laws enforced by OCR to provide educational environments free from discrimination.
(July 2023) 

U.S. Department of Education Releases Resources for Elementary, Secondary, and Postsecondary Schools

These collections, for both elementary and secondary schools  PDF (699K) and postsecondary institutions  PDF (605K), are designed to assist in planning for a successful and equitable return to schools and campuses. They include fact sheets, Q&As, letters to educators, and other materials explaining the obligations that elementary, secondary, and postsecondary schools have under the federal civil rights laws enforced by OCR to provide educational environments free from discrimination.

(May 2023) 

U.S. Department of Education Releases Binder of Resources for Elementary, Secondary, and Postsecondary Schools

These collections, for both elementary and secondary schools  PDF (964K) and postsecondary institutions  PDF (897K) UPDATED!, are designed to assist in planning for a successful and equitable return to schools and campuses. They include fact sheets, Q&As, letters to educators, and other materials explaining the obligations that elementary, secondary, and postsecondary schools have under the federal civil rights laws enforced by OCR to provide educational environments free from discrimination.

(September 2022) 

U.S. Department of Education Releases Binder of Resources for Elementary, Secondary, and Postsecondary Schools

These collections, for both elementary and secondary schools  PDF (719K) and postsecondary institutions  PDF (1.5M) UPDATED!, are designed to assist in planning for a successful and equitable return to schools and campuses. They include fact sheets, Q&As, letters to educators, and other materials explaining the obligations that elementary, secondary, and postsecondary schools have under the federal civil rights laws enforced by OCR to provide educational environments free from discrimination.

(October 2021) 

National Bullying Prevention Month

Bullying Prevention Webinar (slides)  PDF (189K)
Bullying Prevention Webinar (video)

(September 2021) 

U.S. Department of Education Releases Binder of Resources for Elementary, Secondary, and Postsecondary Schools

These collections, for both elementary and secondary schools  PDF (732K) and postsecondary institutions  PDF (632K) UPDATED!, are designed to assist in planning for a successful and equitable return to schools and campuses. They include fact sheets, Q&As, letters to educators, and other materials explaining the obligations that elementary, secondary, and postsecondary schools have under the federal civil rights laws enforced by OCR to provide educational environments free from discrimination.

(June 2021) 

U.S. Department of Education Publishes Report on the Disparate Impacts of COVID-19 on Students in Elementary, Secondary, and Postsecondary Education

This report  PDF (1.95M) explores how the impacts of COVID-19 are falling disproportionately on students who went into the pandemic with the fewest educational opportunities, many of whom are from marginalized and underserved communities, with early research showing disparities based on race, ethnicity, LGBTQ+ identity, and other factors.

(May 2021) 

U.S. Department of Education Publishes New Questions & Answers on Civil Rights and School Reopening in the COVID-19 Environment

This Question & Answer   PDF (1.40M) resource provides information about schools’ responsibilities under the civil rights laws and is designed to help students, families, schools and the public support all students’ rights in educational environments, including in elementary and secondary schools and postsecondary institutions, during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

(December 2016) 

Achieving Simple Justice: Highlights of Activities, Office for Civil Rights (2009-2016)

This publication  PDF (13.84K) describes the significant progress made by the Department and the Office for Civil Rights from 2009-2016 to increase educational equity nationwide and reduce discriminatory barriers faced by students.

(Revised January 2011) 

Ensuring Equal Access To High-Quality Education

This resource provides an overview of the legal responsibilities of the Office for Civil Rights and how they are carried out by resolving discrimination complaints, conducting compliance reviews, and providing technical assistance. There is also information on the impact of the civil rights laws in improving educational opportunities for students.

2010 

How to File a Discrimination Complaint With the Office for Civil Rights

This resource provides information on how to file a complaint for anyone who believes that an education institution that receives federal financial assistance has discriminated against someone on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age, or who believes that a public elementary or secondary school, or state or local education agency has violated the Boy Scouts of America Equal Access Act, may file a complaint.

1999 

Impact of the Civil Rights Laws

This resource describes the impact of the civil rights laws, and other efforts at the national, state, and local level, in bringing about improved educational opportunities for millions of students attending our elementary and secondary schools and colleges and universities.

1992 

Placement of School Children with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome. (Code No. 14)

This resource summarizes the requirements pertaining to counseling practices contained in the regulations implementing Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of Education Amendments of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

1991 

The Guidance Counselor's Role in Ensuring Equal Educational Opportunity

This resource summarizes the requirements pertaining to counseling practices contained in the regulations implementing Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of Education Amendments of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

1991 

Non-Discrimination in Employment Practices in Education (Code No. 12)

This resource summarizes the employment requirements under Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

Office for Civil Rights (OCR)
Page Last Reviewed:
March 18, 2025