Section 504 Plans
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is Congress’ directive to schools receiving any federal funding to eliminate discrimination based on disability from all aspects of school operation. It states, “No otherwise qualified individual with a disability shall solely by reason of her or his disability, be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance.” Since Alameda Unified School District is a recipient of federal funding, we are required to provide eligible disabled students with equal access (both physical and academic) to services, programs, and activities offered by our schools.
Section 504 is a civil rights statute and not a special education statute. Therefore, it is the responsibility of District regular education staff and administration to implement those practices and procedures necessary for a school to fulfill the requirements of this law. There are no compliance timelines, but the 504 process must take place within a reasonable amount of time. Schools receive no additional funding to implement Section 504 services. At each school, the responsibility for ensuring Section 504 compliance rests with the school site’s Section 504 coordinator and/or the principal. Each teacher with a 504 student must be familiar with the student’s 504 Service Plan and be prepared to make the necessary accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What criteria are used to determine Section 504 eligibility?
- What is the process for reviewing Section 504 eligibility?
- How often should a Section 504 Service Plan be reviewed?
- Are there situations when it is inappropriate to offer a Section 504 Service Plan?
- Are there any special rules regarding discipline and students with Section 504 Service Plans?