What is Section 504, and how can it help my student?
“Section 504” is Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, a federal civil rights statute protecting persons with disabilities from discrimination. Section 504 applies to all agencies that receive federal funds, including public schools. For students who need extra support, we sometimes create a "504 Plan," a document which describes the impact a student's disability has on student learning, and lists reasonable accommodations which can be made by the teacher to adjust the environment to the needs of the student.
The Section 504 regulations prohibit discrimination against people with disabilities and requires school districts to provide a free appropriate public education to students with disabilities. A 504 planning team decides what supports a student with disabilities needs to "level the playing field" so the student can access educational opportunities.
Some students with disabilities qualify for special education services and supports under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Section 504 is not the same as Special Education under the IDEA.
Guide for Parents and Teachers: An introductory explanation of Section 504 in a Q & A format English Spanish
Medical or Health Assessment Statement: to be filled out by a medical professional Medical Statement PDF
Notice of Parent/Student Rights: Information of a person's rights under Section 504 English Spanish
Release of Information: for communication between the school and a medical provider Release of Information PDF
For additional information, please reach out to us as this process can be somewhat confusing. snicolas@pps.net or hallen@pps.net