ADD Student

There has been an article in the news today concerning a student at Princeton University who has ADHD and is suing the school because they refuse to give her extended time to take her exams.

The student, Diane Metcalf-Leggette, informed Princeton of her ADHD and other learning disabilities when she applied for admission.

While the school does allow her to take her tests in a different environment – usually a testing center outside of the classroom – and does allow her a 10 minute break during the exam, it refuses to allow her extra time, a perfectly reasonable accommodation.

According to Princeton’s attorney Hannah Ross “…the university is not required to offer extended test time if it would jeopardize the essence of a Princeton education.”

Ms. Ross should be aware – as should you as the parent of an ADD Student – that ADHD is recognized under the Americans with Disabilities Act as a disability and that people who have been diagnosed as such are entitled to reasonable and fair accommodations under Federal law.

As far as I know, Princeton University is still subject to federal law, essence or not.

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