What is a 504 Plan?

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 Some students who do not require special education services may receive accommodations, special instruction, or related services under Section 504 and ADA, consistent with the district’s policy against discrimination on the basis of disability. If you believe your child may have an impairment needing services via a 504 Accommodation Plan, please contact your child's building principal, teacher or counselor to arrange a parent conference to discuss your concerns.

What is a 504 Plan? 504 Plan is a plan developed to ensure that a child with a disability, identified under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, attending an elementary or secondary educational institution receives accommodations that will provide access to the learning environment. The document assures compliance of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and is developed by a team of individuals that may consist of the student with a disability (if appropriate), the student's parent(s)/guardian(s), the student's teacher(s), the student's counselor, and the 504 coordinator. 504 Plans are beneficial to both students and teachers. They help ensure that students with disabilities receive appropriate accommodations. They provide educators with information about the specific needs of their students with disabilities and practical strategies that they can incorporate into their lesson planning. Examples of accommodations include but are not limited to wheelchair-accessible facilities, adjustable-height tables, large-print reading materials, and increased time to complete assignments and tests.

How is a student considered for a 504 plan? A student with a physical disability ,emotional disability or who has an impairment (i.e. Attention Deficit Disorder) that restricts one or more major life activities that is negatively impacting their ability to learn can be referred to the 504 committee for possible evaluation.

What are examples of "major life activities?" Major life activities include caring for one's self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, working, and learning.

What is the process for placing a student on a 504 plan? There are essentially four steps:

  1. Student is referred by teacher, support staff, parent/legal guardian, physician, or therapist

  2. A 504 plan meeting is held and eligibility determined (based on evaluation results, educational history, etc.)

  3. If eligible, a plan for the student is developed

  4. A review date is set

Who is involved in the process? The student, parent/legal guardian, teachers, principals, 504 Coordinator, support staff (i.e. nurse, counselor, psychologist, language/speech pathologist) as well as the student's physician or therapist may be involved in the placement process including the 504 meeting.

What accommodations might be included in the 504 plan? A child's seat assignment accommodates a disability. A diabetic child may be permitted to eat in the classroom. A child may be permitted to go to the health office for the administration of medication. A student's assignments or testing conditions may be adjusted (i.e. extensions of time, modification of test questions).

adapted from Ogdensburg City School District Special Education Services page