Disability Rights

Years after the Americans with Disabilities Act became law, gaps in accessibility requirements remain.

Mike Suarez sits quietly at the edge of the sidewalk, watching kids buzz around the playground at Crestview Elementary School.

One child rockets down a slide. Another lurches awkwardly across the monkey bars. Mike’s mom, Amber Suarez, reminds the 9-year-old to apply the brakes on his wheelchair so he doesn’t roll onto the gravel that covers the play area.

Mike is quick to say that recess is his favorite part of coming to Crestview. He has a long list of friends in his fourth grade class — but Mike can’t fully be included with them outside the classroom.