Today I want to address Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. In my opinion, it is the best kept secret of the public school system. So often, children suffer from medical issues that impact their ability to learn, but they don't qualify for special education because they're not learning disabled. Parents become frustrated because even though their child has a medical issue that affects their education, they can't get services for their child at school. This is where the 504 comes in to play.
What is the 504?
- The "504" in "504 plan" refers to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act, which specifies that no one with a disability can be excluded from participating in federally funded programs or activities, including elementary, secondary or post secondary schooling. "Disability" in this context refers to a "physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities." This can include physical impairments; illnesses or injuries; communicable diseases; chronic conditions like asthma, allergies and diabetes; and learning problems. A 504 plan spells out the modifications and accommodations that will be needed for these students to have an opportunity perform at the same level as their peers, and might include such things as wheelchair ramps, blood sugar monitoring, an extra set of textbooks, a peanut-free lunch environment, home instruction, or a tape recorder or keyboard for taking notes. (Where I got this information.)
I've had students (remember I'm a high school teacher) that have literally missed over thirty days of school in a nine-week period due to medical issues, and they've received credit for their classes because they have 504 modifications and doctors' notes for their absences. This is fantastic for kids that have asthma or other easily aggravated conditions that can make going to school difficult or even unsafe. Also, under 504 modifications, in most cases you can receive home bound services via your school district. The school district has to pay a certified teacher to come to your home a couple of times a week, bring work to your child, and also tutor that child if it is necessary.
How are 504 modifications different from Individual Education Plan?
- 504 modifications differ from IEPs for special education because 504's are meant for all people/children with disabilities. The modifications are simply meant to level the playing field and ensure that that students with disabilities are allowed to participate as freely as possible in the education process. IEPs are meant for a small subset of students with disabilities, since not all disabilities automatically qualify you for special education services. A person can be disabled but have no learning problems.
- Contact your school and request that you meet with your child's school counselor.
- Fill out the 504 request form. *****AUTISM AND ADHD ARE COVERED BY THE 504*****
- You will then be set up for a meeting between you, your child's teachers, and school administration. Your child will also meet with the school's nurse, psychologist and whom ever else is necessary to figure out what your child's needs are. Be sure to bring any medical evaluations of your child and letters from your child's doctor documenting your child's medical condition.
- A 504 Plan will be developed for your child that will (hopefully) meet your child's needs. REMEMBER!! YOU DON'T HAVE SO SIGN ANYTHING THAT YOU DON'T AGREE WITH. The 504 Plan then becomes a legally binding contract that your child's school must follow.
Exact wording of the Rehabilitation Act, Section 504
Special Education Law by State
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