Full Answer Section

1. Class’s Disability Status

Determining Disability Under the ADA:

To qualify as disabled under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), an individual must meet one of the following criteria:

• Have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.
• Have a record of such an impairment.

Be regarded as having such an impairment.

Analysis of Class’s Case:

Based on the information provided, it seems that Class’s medical condition, while significant, may not meet the ADA’s definition of disability. The court’s failure to reach a definitive conclusion suggests that there may be some ambiguity or uncertainty regarding whether Class’s condition substantially limits a major life activity.

To determine whether Class qualifies as disabled, it would be necessary to gather more information about the specific limitations imposed by his condition and how they impact his ability to participate in major life activities. If Class can demonstrate that his condition substantially limits a major life activity, such as participating in sports or education, he may be eligible for protection under the ADA.

2. Fundamental Changes to the Football Program

Assessing the Reasonableness of Accommodations:

The ADA requires employers, including educational institutions, to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. However, the law does not require employers to make fundamental changes to their programs or services.

Analysis of Class’s Proposed Accommodations:

Whether Class’s proposed accommodations would require fundamental changes to the football program would depend on the specific nature of the accommodations and the context of the program. If the accommodations would significantly alter the essential nature of the football program or impose an undue hardship on the school, they may not be considered reasonable.

For example, if Class’s proposed accommodations would require the team to fundamentally change its playing style or strategies, or if they would impose a disproportionate financial burden on the school, they may not be reasonable. However, if the accommodations are relatively minor and do not significantly interfere with the program’s goals, they may be considered reasonable.

3. Intent of the ADA

Is This a Creative Application of the Law?

The ADA was intended to prevent discrimination against individuals with disabilities in various areas, including employment, public accommodations, and state and local government services. While the specific facts of Class’s case may not have been explicitly contemplated by the ADA’s drafters, the principles underlying the law could be applied to this situation.

If Class can demonstrate that his disability, as defined by the ADA, prevents him from fully participating in the football program, and if reasonable accommodations would allow him to participate, the ADA may provide him with a legal claim. However, the ultimate determination of whether Class is entitled to accommodations would depend on a careful analysis of the specific facts of his case and the applicable legal standards.