504 Plans
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a civil rights law that ensures students with disabilities have equal access to education. Schools receiving federal funding must provide accommodations so students with disabilities can participate fully in educational programs and activities.
Who Qualifies?
A student qualifies for a 504 Plan if they have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities (such as learning, reading, concentrating, walking, breathing, or caring for oneself).
Examples of conditions that may qualify:
- ADHD
- Anxiety or depression
- Asthma or allergies
- Diabetes
- Epilepsy
- Chronic illnesses
- Vision or hearing impairments
- Temporary medical conditions requiring accommodations
Eligibility is determined individually by examining whether the impairment substantially limits the student compared to same-age, non-disabled peers.
The 504 Process
1. Referral
Parents, teachers, counselors, or healthcare providers can request a 504 evaluation. Contact your school principal, vice principal, or counselor by email or letter.
2. Evaluation
A Section 504 Team (teachers, specialists, school staff, parent/guardian, and student when appropriate) reviews data including medical information, student work samples, attendance, and teacher observations.
3. Eligibility Determination
The team determines if the student has a disability under Section 504 and needs accommodations for equal access.
4. Development of 504 Plan
If eligible, the team creates a written plan with specific accommodations tailored to the student's needs.
5. Implementation and Review
Accommodations are implemented and the plan is reviewed at least annually, or more often if needed. Parents can request a review meeting at any time.
Upcoming Events
How to Request a 504 Plan
- Contact your child's principal, vice principal, or counselor
- Submit a written request for a Section 504 evaluation
- Provide relevant medical documentation or assessments
- Participate in team meetings
- Stay involved in monitoring the plan's effectiveness
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