911ÖÆÆ·³§

Section 504 is a part of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 that prohibits discrimination based upon disability. Section 504 protects the rights of individuals with disabilities and requires that school districts receiving federal financial assistance provide a “free appropriate public education” to qualified students with disabilities. To be protected under Section 504, a student must be determined to (i) have a mental or physical impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities (including caring for one’s self, performing manual tasks, seeing, hearing, eating, sleeping, walking, standing, lifting, bending, speaking, breathing, learning, reading, concentrating, thinking, communicating, working, or operation of a major bodily function); (ii) have a record of such an impairment; or (iii) be regarded as having such an impairment.

Similar to the individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which established special education programs and services in public education, Section 504 requires that school districts provide qualified students with disabilities a free, appropriate, public education (FAPE) .  However, Section 504 differs from IDEA in three respects: 

• The Definition of disability in 504, as related above, is significantly different from the thirteen eligibility categories listed under IDEA (see Special Education Eligibility section above).

• School districts do not receive state or federal money for serving Section 504 students.

• Section 504 is broader in scope, it applies to both students and employees of school districts.

Anyone can refer a child for evaluation under Section 504, and the evaluation, services and placement of students with disabilities will be provided at no cost to parents/guardians. For each student who is eligible under Section 504, the 504 team (including parents/guardians) will develop and implement a written plan designed to meet the student’s individual educational needs. The 504 plan will describe the services and/or accommodations the student will receive in school.  The District’s policy and procedures regarding Section 504 may be accessed here: Section 504 Policy and Procedures

If you have questions concerning Section 504, eligibility, or your student's 504 plan, or if you would like a copy of the Section 504 policy and procedures, please contact the 911ÖÆÆ·³§ 504 Coordinator at 504_Coordinator@eths202.org or (847) 424-7070.