Mother incensed after son with ADHD given 'Most Likely to Be Distracted' award by teacher.

American mother Tera Cooper is furious after her 13-year-old son, Derek, who has ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), was reduced to tears by his teacher, when he was given a ‘most likely to be distracted’ award in front of his entire class, NBC Connecticut has reported.

The certificate read, “#ADDaward…Most likely to be distracted by… Look something shiny!”, and included a picture of a zombie being lifted up by a balloon.

Tera has said she will take legal action against her son’s school, Plainfield Central School in Connecticut, for their discrimination.

The mother has spoken about the moment her son told her of the award.

"He had tears in his eyes. He's embarrassed because he had to accept it in front of his entire class," she said.

Derek also received an award for being the most improved at social studies, and another titled "#BermudaTriangle" which said he was most likely to borrow something and never give it back.

Tera explained that the school has full knowledge of Derek's condition as he is on a personalised learning program.

"I don't know if she thought it was funny but it's not funny. She's the teacher. It's supposed to be a safe space."

Tera also reported that Cooper told her that other students had received "ADD awards", too.

The school's principal, Scott Gagnon, explained he notified parents that he would address the issue immediately.

"Parents were assured that, along with our central office administration, this matter would be handled promptly as we are acting on good faith in the interest of the student and his family."