The Bernie R-XIII School District is committed to providing equal educational opportunities for all students. In accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the district provides accommodations and supports for eligible students with disabilities to ensure access to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE).
A Section 504 Plan is a written plan developed for students with disabilities who may require accommodations, supports, or services in order to fully access and participate in school programs and activities. The purpose of a 504 Plan is to remove barriers that may interfere with a student’s ability to learn and participate in the educational environment.
Students may qualify for a 504 Plan if they have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities. Major life activities may include learning, reading, concentrating, communicating, walking, breathing, seeing, hearing, or other daily functions.
Examples of disabilities that may qualify under Section 504 include, but are not limited to:
ADHD
Diabetes
Epilepsy
Anxiety or depression
Asthma
Medical conditions
Temporary impairments resulting from injury or illness
Section 504 is part of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, a federal civil rights law designed to prevent discrimination against individuals with disabilities. Section 504 was one of the first federal laws protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities and applies to any organization or school district receiving federal financial assistance.
The law ensures that students with disabilities are not excluded from participation in, denied benefits of, or subjected to discrimination in school programs or activities because of their disability.
Under Section 504, eligible students are entitled to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). This means schools must provide regular or special education and related aids and services designed to meet the individual educational needs of students with disabilities as adequately as the needs of nondisabled students are met.
Accommodations and services under a 504 Plan may include:
Preferential seating
Extended time on assignments or tests
Health or medical accommodations
Behavior supports
Classroom or environmental modifications
Organizational supports
Access to assistive technology
It is important to note that Section 504 Plans provide accommodations and supports to access the general education curriculum; however, they do not allow for modifications to the curriculum or changes to academic standards. Students receiving services under Section 504 are expected to participate in the general education curriculum and meet the same learning expectations as their peers, with appropriate accommodations provided as needed.
The district works collaboratively with parents/guardians, teachers, school staff, and outside providers when appropriate to determine eligibility and develop individualized support plans.
For questions regarding Section 504 services, evaluations, accommodations, or eligibility, please contact:
Lindsay Beaird
Special Services Director / Section 504 Coordinator
Bernie R-XIII School District
Phone: (573) 293-5335 ext. 256
Email: beairdl@bernie.k12.mo.us