Section 504
What is it, and what
does it have to do with
ADHD?
First, let’s say what 504 is
NOT.
It
is not an IEP (individual education
plan). An IEP can modify the CONTENT
of what a child learns. Section 504
makes
ACCOMMODATIONS in the child’s
LEARNING ENVIRONMENT.
What is Section 504?
Section 504 is anti-discrimination legislation,
a civil rights statute,
not special education services.
It is about providing accommodations that
will compensate for a disability so that the
student will have an equal chance to
participate in class, not reduce
expectations or modify grades.
How does it do this?
If a child is determined eligible for a
504 plan, he/she may receive
accommodations and modifications in
the classroom environment.
What do you mean by
accommodations or
modifications?
This
means changing the way things are
usually done in order to take into account a
child’s disability-related needs. Examples
may include modifying rules, policies, or
practices; removal of architectural or
communication barriers; or providing aids,
services, or assistive technology.
Is this like an I.E.P.?
No.
An individualized education program
modifies the LEVEL of CONTENT taught,
and a 504 plan modifies the learning
environment by use of modifications such
as peer tutoring, oral testing, abbreviated
assignments, longer work time, alternative
materials, cooperative learning, etc.
How do I know if my child can
qualify?
Parents,teachers,
or Support Team can
request a meeting with the 504 committee.
At
the meeting, the 504 committee
determines if the child’s disability has a
significant impact on their educational
performance.
Do all children with ADHD
qualify?
No.
The purpose of a 504 meeting is to
determine whether or not a child is
eligible. Some children with ADHD do well
without modifications or accommodations.
Also…
The
child must have a medical
diagnosis of ADHD; this condition
must substantially limit one or more
major life activities and interfere
with their academics.
How will I know the 504 plan is
being followed?
Stay
in touch with your child’s
teacher. Know your parental rights
under 504.
Each year, look for an annual review
meeting. If you don’t hear from
someone, call the counselor’s office.
Does my child stay on the same
504 forever?
All
children change and mature. If
modifications or accommodations are no
longer needed, a 504 review may determine
the need for termination.
For example, a child may need a quiet place
to test in 3rd grade, but by 6th grade,
they may have developed strategies to
tune out extraneous classroom noise.
Who is usually on the 504
committee?
You,
the parent.
A 504 chairperson.
An administrator.
The child’s classroom teacher.
Any other relevant adults at school who
are closely associated with the child’s
needs.
Who is eligible under Section
504?
If
a child has a physical or mental
impairment that substantially limits
one or more major life activities.
A child who has a record of such
impairment.
A child who is regarded as having
such an impairment.
What other disabilities fall
under 504?
 Chronic asthma and severe allergies
 Behavior Disorders
 Communicable diseases such as HIV, AIDS, or TB
 Temporary disabling conditions due to accidents or
illnesses
 Physical handicaps such as spina bifida, hemophilia,
and conditions requiring crutches
 Diabetes
 Any other disability that limits a major life
activity
What does NOT change once
my child is determined eligible?
They
are still expected to pass tests
demonstrating mastery of basic skills.
Content is not modified.
A student in a 504 program is still
subject to the school’s code of
conduct and academic standards.
Any questions?