Section 504

About Section 504 and Americans with Disabilities Act

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a federal civil rights statute that prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities. Section 504 applies to recipients of federal funds, including public schools. The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) extends the protections of Section 504 and also applies to public schools.

The Section 504 regulations prohibit discrimination against people with disabilities and requires school districts to provide a free appropriate public education to students with disabilities. A 504 team determines the accommodations and supports each student with qualifying disabilities require to access the same educational opportunities as their peers. Some students with disabilities qualify for special education services and supports under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Section 504 is not the same as Special Education under the IDEA.

Identification and Eligibility

Under Section 504, a student with a disability is defined as a person who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity. In schools, the major life activity is learning. The determination of whether a student has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity (and therefore has a disability) is made by the 504 team, with the review of all current data, documents, and any relevant medical information. If a student is found eligible, the team creates a 504 Plan with specific accommodations required for the student to access their education.

Screening

EVA provides universal screening and Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) to ensure systematic identification of students who may demonstrate an educational disability. Our MTSS model allows for academic and behavioral intervention for all students, with progress monitoring to determine the need for more intensive supports.

How to Access Section 504 Support

Most often, students are referred to the 504 team through our MTSS process. MTSS provides a range of accommodations for students who benefit from classroom interventions.

If you believe your student has a condition that prevents them from accessing the learning environment or demonstrating their understanding of school concepts, please contact your homeroom teacher. They may refer you to the 504 team or to the intervention team to help determine what support EVA can provide to your student.

If you have a medical statement or documents to provide the 504 team, please fax them directly to the 504 Coordinator at 888-588-3688