Parent Resources
504 plans can include those with:
- attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- autism spectrum disorder (ASD)
- diabetes
- epilepsy
- hearing problems or vision impairment
- chronic health conditions, such as asthma or allergies
- mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression
A student returning to school after a serious illness or injury also might get a 504 plan.
Did You Know....
Both an IEP and a 504 plan can provide accommodations and supports for students with disabilities. Section 504 has a broader definition of a disability than Special Education. That's why a child who doesn't qualify for an IEP might still be able to get a 504 plan.
Section 504 Service Plans
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (“Section 504”) is a civil rights law that prevents discrimination against students with disabilities. Under this provision, any school that receives federal funding must ensure that all students with disabilities are guaranteed a free appropriate public education and provide services or accommodations needed for students to access their educational program. Section 504 is not a Special Education Law.
What is a 504 Service Plan?
A 504 plan refers to the accommodation methods and strategies designed by the District team to comply with this law. To make sure a plan adequately meets the needs of the student, 504 plans are developed by a team consisting of a school administrator, school psychologist, teacher, and the student's parents/legal guardians.
504 Plan Eligibility
Eligible students include those who:
- Have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits their ability to carry out essential life activities such a seeing, walking, or communicating.
- Have an officially documented physical or mental impairment.
- Have a 'non-temporary' disability. Students with an impairment that isn't permanent or long-lasting will not be considered eligible.
Despite this broad definition, simply having a disability does not immediately qualify a student for a 504 plan. The school must determine how significantly a student's disability impacts his or her ability to learn. A referral should be considered for the following reasons:
- Marked decline in grades
- Not responding to general education interventions (SST, counseling, etc.)
- Failing to achieve passing grades
- Failing to advance from grade to grade
- Chronically absent from school
- Returning to school after a serious illness or injury (i.e. cancer, concussion), either from a hospital or home/hospital instruction
- A life threatening health condition
- A temporary impairment that will be substantially limiting for an extended period of time
- An impairment that is episodic or in remission that is substantially limiting when active
- Taking new medication or has stopped taking medication
- Experiencing negative social, emotional and/or behavioral issues at school
- Engaged in serious disciplinary misconduct
If your child has a physical or mental disability diagnosis or if you have concerns regarding your child's educational progress, contact the site administrators to see if your student may be eligible for a 504 plan.
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