What is a 504 plan and who qualifies?
STUDENTS PROTECTED UNDER SECTION 504 To be protected under Section 504, a student must be determined to: (1) have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities; or (2) have a record of such an impairment; or (3) be regarded as having such an impairment.
Does a 504 plan follow you to college?
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 still protects students from discrimination when they get to college. However, they won’t get a 504 plan like they had in high school. In other words, a your daughter’s 504 plan doesn’t “travel” with her to college.
How do I get a 504 plan?
7 steps to getting a 504 plan for your child
- Document your child’s needs.
- Find out who the school’s 504 coordinator is.
- Write a formal request for a 504 plan.
- Follow up on your request.
- Go through the 504 plan evaluation process.
- Meet with the school to see if your child qualifies.
- Work together to create the 504 plan.
Is a diagnosis required for a 504 plan?
A student must have a specific medical diagnosis to be considered for Section §504. There is no legal basis under 504 to require a medical diagnosis. However, evaluation processes would typically need to be more thorough and involved if this information does not exist.
Is a 504 considered a disability?
Section 504 has a broader definition of a disability than IDEA. (It says a disability must substantially limit one or more basic life activities. This can include learning, reading, communicating, and thinking.) That’s why a child who doesn’t qualify for an IEP might still be able to get a 504 plan.
What qualifies as a 504 disability?
There is no specific mention of learning disabilities in Section 504, however the law defines a person as disabled if he or she: has a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities, has a record of such an impairment, or. is regarded as having such an impairment.
Is there a downside to having a 504 plan?
Pitfall #1: Not exploring what’s possible with a 504 plan. They may not explain that it can provide accommodations , modifications and special services like those in an IEP . Prepare in advance by learning as much you can about your options.
How long is a 504 plan good for?
three years
The law doesn’t require an annual 504 plan re-evaluation. It only requires “periodic re-evaluation,” which is generally every three years or so. If there are significant changes in your child’s needs or placement in school, then you may want to consider asking for a re-evaluation, in addition to a review.
What diagnosis qualifies for 504 plan?
A student is eligible for Section 504 if the child has a physical or mental condition that substantially limits a “major life activity.” Major life activities for a child in school include learning and/or activities in addition to walking, talking, breathing, caring for oneself, etc.
Why would a student get a 504 plan?
The 504 Plan is a plan developed to ensure that a child who has a disability identified under the law and is attending an elementary or secondary educational institution receives accommodations that will ensure their academic success and access to the learning environment.
Does anxiety qualify for a 504?
Yes. A student may qualify for a 504 plan if anxiety gets in the way of the student participating at school. The 504 plan aims to remove barriers caused by the anxiety.
Can a school refuse a 504 plan?
Section 504 requires schools to make “reasonable accommodations” to help people with disabilities perform effectively. Under Section 504, schools may not ban or refuse to allow a student to participate in activities without making any reasonable effort to accommodate the student reasonably.
Who qualifies for a 504 plan?
To qualify for a specialized plan under Section 504, your child must have a disability or impairment that “substantially” limits or reduces their ability to access classroom learning. Anyone can recommend that your child receives a Section 504 plan.
Which is better, a 504 plan or an IEP?
A 504 Plan is a better option when the student can function well in a regular education environment with accommodations. The 504 is generally less restrictive than the IEP, and also less stigmatizing. An IEP is a better option for students with a disability that is adversely impacting education.
Is a 504 plan considered an IEP?
If a student qualifies for an IEP, a 504 Plan is not needed. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act requires that parents be a part of the IEP process. Section 504 does not require that the parent be part of the team that creates the 504 Plan.
What does a 504 Plan Do?
504 Plan Defined. The 504 Plan is a plan developed to ensure that a child who has a disability identified under the law and is attending an elementary or secondary educational institution receives accommodations that will ensure their academic success and access to the learning environment.
