Jacobsen v. Tillmann

Jacobsen v. Tillmann: Court Rules Against Teacher with Learning Disabilities

This case involved a woman who challenged the Minnesota State Board of Teaching's requirement that she pass a math test called the PPST to become a teacher. The woman had documented learning disabilities that made it difficult for her to pass the math portion of the test. She argued that the Board discriminated against her and failed to provide reasonable accommodations for her disabilities when they refused to waive or modify the math requirement.

The court ruled against the woman and sided with the Minnesota State Board of Teaching. The judge granted summary judgment, meaning the case was decided without going to trial because the court found the woman's legal claims had no merit under the law.

What this means for workers: This ruling shows that employers and licensing boards may not be required to eliminate essential job requirements, even when someone has a disability. While employers must provide reasonable accommodations, they don't have to remove fundamental qualifications if those skills are necessary for the job. Workers with disabilities should understand that accommodation requests may be denied if they would fundamentally alter the position's core requirements, though each situation depends on specific circumstances.