Twenty years ago, the term “neurodiverse” didn't exist. Within the last two decades, however, mental health researchers and professionals have been advocating for a change in mindset concerning individuals who think differently from the norm. Young people who are neurodivergent often have a hard time at school and may forgo college altogether because of the social and emotional challenges they pose.

Colleges and universities across the country have implemented policies to support neurodiverse students or students diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Significant strides have been made, but there's still a lot of work to do to make these students feel welcome and help them excel as much as their neurotypical peers.

New Illinois Legislation Supports Neurodivergent College Students

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has been crucial in helping students with physical or learning disabilities get the supportive education they need. But in many ways, it's fallen short of supporting students who are neurodivergent. New legislation passed in Illinois aims to change that.

The bill was signed into law in May 2023 and called on institutions of higher education to better accommodate the needs of neurodiverse students. It also asks colleges and universities in Illinois to draft an inclusion statement that “embraces the fact that every student is different and should be encouraged to reach their full potential.”

The Illinois Community College Trustees Association was primarily behind lobbying efforts for the bill. The president of the association, Maureen Dunne, was interviewed by Inside Higher Ed about the new law and said that institutions need to start accommodating people who aren't “linear thinkers.” Dunne also pointed out that most neurodiverse students start their college careers at community colleges because they have an open-door policy and are typically closer to home. They usually provide students with an easier transition to college life.

Neurodiverse Students Represent an Untapped Potential

Maureen Dunne also noted that 20 percent of the world's population is neurodivergent—which is no small figure. When people who think differently are excluded from post-secondary education simply because the systems don't accommodate them, society as a whole loses out.

Schools should work to make the learning environment more suitable for students who are neurodivergent. Modifications might include breaking big projects up into smaller chunks, ensuring that the facilities aren't a distraction to students (such as a flickering light or loud air conditioner), or even letting students use voice-to-text software for essays and exams.

Neurodiverse students should also have the same due process rights as other students when it comes to disciplinary issues. Many schools don't make the needed accommodations and end up running a biased investigation and hearing procedure when neurodivergent, or ASD students are accused of misconduct.

Protecting the Rights of Neurodivergent College Students

At the Lento Law Firm, we understand the challenges that neurodiverse students face in academics, social life, and extracurriculars. Our Education Law Team has helped neurodivergent students who have been accused of misconduct or have had their rights taken away on campus. If you find yourself in a similar situation at your school, call us today at 888-535-3686 or contact us online.