According to the Honig v. Doe case, what can schools not do unilaterally?

The ruling in Honig v. Doe is significant because it established important protections for students with disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Specifically, the case emphasizes that schools cannot unilaterally expel or suspend students with disabilities for behaviors that are a manifestation of their disabilities. This means that if a student’s behavior is directly linked to their disability, the school must provide appropriate interventions and supports rather than resorting to suspension or expulsion.

This ruling recognizes the need for schools to consider the unique needs of students with disabilities and to avoid actions that could disproportionately affect their educational opportunities. For example, a student with a behavioral disorder may act out in ways that lead to disciplinary actions, but those actions should be addressed through educational and behavioral support rather than exclusion from school. Therefore, the decision underscores the requirement for schools to engage in a proper evaluation process when determining disciplinary measures, ensuring that the rights of students with disabilities are protected.