Understanding Pandemic ADA Accommodations For Faculty And Staff

May teachers and faculty telecommute? Explore the necessary ADA accommodations.

Many faculty members fear returning to schools in the new year due to the risk of contracting COVID-19 or infecting vulnerable family members. The virus’ recent surge has exacerbated these concerns. Some educators have requested reasonable accommodations under the ADA, such as teaching from home or taking leaves of absence.

To address these requests appropriately, you need to understand the legal requirements and the latest government guidance.

• What reasonable accommodations does the ADA require?
• What is the “interactive process” you would need to engage in?
• Do the underlying medical conditions of employees or family members justify reasonable accommodations?
• Would a reasonable accommodation allow your employees to teach remotely?
• What would constitute an undue burden?
• Are staff eligible for worker’s compensation if they contract COVID-19 at work?