Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is Federal Civil Rights legislation.

What is the purpose of Section 504 law?

The purpose of Section 504 is to ensure eligible students receive protections under the law. This could include accommodations, aids or special services to students with disabilities so they have the same opportunities, as non-disabled students to be able to participate in educational experiences. It is often said that Section 504 “levels the playing field” for all students attending public school.

How is a student protected under Section 504?

A student that has a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities is protected under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act law. Section 504 requires school districts to provide a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) to qualified students.

What do parents need to know since the law changed?

The Amendments Act of 2008 (ADAAA) greatly changed and expanded the Section 504 law to include more than just “learning” as a major life activity. Many students who previously were not eligible before the Amendments Act of 2008 went into effect could now be eligible.

Your child might now be eligible for accommodations or services. Find out how your child might be eligible for services under Section 504.

What is the school district’s responsibility under Child Find?

School districts are obligated to evaluate a student suspected of having a disability. Let us help your school district stay in compliance with Section 504 law. Silver & Associates Educational Consulting Solutions provide assistance with everything related to Section 504: process, procedures, creation of forms, creation of or revision of 504 procedural manual, and training.