PITTSBURGH -- A special education student sued the South Allegheny School District alleging the district was responsible for paying for his private school education.
The plaintiff, a minor identified as TL, sued the South Allegheny School District in the U.S. District Court of the Western District of Pennsylvania on Oct. 19, alleging discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act. The suit alleges that the district failed to meet TL's academic and behavioral needs, and as a result should pay for the tuition costs of a private school education.
TL, who has autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, was expelled from the South Allegheny School District following a fight with his math teacher and other disciplinary issues. He attempted other public schools and cyber schools, but they allegedly did not meet his needs. His parents allege that a private religious school is the only school that can adequately serve his needs.
The plaintiff seeks reimbursement for the costs of his education, plus attorney fees and other damages. The plaintiff is represented by Alex J. Barker of Steele Schneider in Pittsburgh.
U.S. District Court of the Western District of Pennsylvania case no. 15-cv-01358