NAIS Legal Webinar Series: Navigating the ADA in Independent Schools: Recent Developments, Emerging Risks, and Best Practices

Disability-related issues remain among the most challenging legal and operational matters facing independent schools. From student accommodations and employee disability requests to service animals and accessibility concerns, school leaders are frequently called upon to make decisions with significant legal and educational implications.  

Drawing from NAIS's recently updated legal advisory, Mackenzie Conway and Elizabeth Samples of Husch Blackwell LLP will examine how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) applies to independent schools and discuss recent legal developments that schools should be monitoring. This session from the 2026-2027 NAIS Legal Webinar Series will explore common problem areas, emerging trends, and practical approaches for responding to disability-related issues in a manner consistent with both legal requirements and institutional values.  

Presenters:  

• Mackenzie Conway, Husch Blackwell LLP  
• Elizabeth Samples, Husch Blackwell LLP