What is Section 504?
Section 504 is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals
with
disabilities. Section 504 ensures that a child with a disability has equal access to an education. A
child may
receive accommodations and modifications.
How does Section 504 define "disability?"
A person is disabled within the definition of Section 504 if the following conditions
are
met:
The child must have a mental or physical impairment that substantially limits
one or
more of a person's major life activities.
"Major life activities" include functions such as caring for one's self,
performing
manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and working. When a condition
does not
substantially limit a major life activity, the individual does not qualify under Section 504.
The child's disability must impact their education in order to qualify for
educational
accommodations.
This determination is made by a school team of individuals who are familiar with the
child
and the child's parent.
Eligibility
If the school has reason to believe that, because of a disability as defined under
Section
504, a student needs accommodations or services in order to participate in the school program, the
school must
evaluate the student. If it is determined that a student is disabled under Section 504, the school must
develop and implement the delivery of all needed services and/or accommodations.
What Does Making Accommodations Mean?
Accommodations are adjustments made by the classroom teacher(s) and other school
staff to
help students benefit from their educational program. In some cases a plan should be developed outlining
services and accommodations.