NCJW Applauds SCOTUS Ruling in A.J.T. v. Osseo Area Schools Affirming Rights to Accessible Alternatives Under the Americans With Disabilities Act

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, June 12, 2025
PRESS CONTACT: press@ncjw.org

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, the Supreme Court of the United States issued its opinion in A.J.T. v. Osseo Area Schools, parting with the lower courts and maintaining that disabled students do not have to meet a higher burden in proving cases of discrimination than any other American, as dictated by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

In response, Darcy Hirsh, Senior Director of Government Relations and Advocacy at National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) — one of the nation’s leading Jewish feminist civil rights organizations, representing 250,000 advocates from across the country — issued the following statement:

“The Supreme Court has made it clear that students with disabilities should not have to face a higher burden of proof than others facing discrimination. We support existing laws that require educational institutions to provide opportunities to children with disabilities, as well as the Americans with Disabilities Act, which protects all disabled individuals from discrimination.

“National Council of Jewish Women advocates worked for passage of the ADA and continue to advocate for policies that ensure equal access and dignity for all. Guided by the Jewish value of b’tzelem Elohim, the idea that everyone is created in God’s image, we believe that accessible, high quality education must be guaranteed to all students regardless of ability. This decision affirms what we know to be true: accessibility is not an accommodation, but a fundamental right.”

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National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a 132-year-old Jewish feminist civil rights organization working for equity and justice for women, children, and families in the United States and Israel. Through the efforts of our 250,000 grassroots advocates and 48 local sections, NCJW combines education, direct service, and advocacy to affect lasting social change at the local, state, and national levels. We approach our work through the intersections of gender, economic, and racial justice to center those most impacted in a uniquely Jewish way. Learn more at NCJW.org, and on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.