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.