The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, 29 USC 794, commonly referred to as “Section 504,” is a federal civil rights statute that prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in programs and activities that receive federal financial assistance.  Section 504’s purpose is, among other things, to assure that students with a disability have educational opportunities and benefits equal to those provided to non-disabled students. An eligible student under Section 504 is a student who has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity, has a record of such impairment, or is regarded as having an impairment. If a student qualifies under Section 504, accommodations, services, and supports are provided as is necessary to ensure that the student has equal access to the services, programs, and activities offered by the school.

Pursuant to Section 504, the Glen Rose School District has a duty to identify, refer, evaluate and if eligible, provide a free, appropriate public education to students with disabilities. For additional information about the rights of parents of eligible children, or for answers to any questions you might have about identification, evaluation, and placement under Section 504, please contact your school’s principal.

Resources:

• Parent and Educator Resource Guide from the Office of Civil Rights
• Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973
• Section 504, IEP, and IHP comparison
• What is a 504 Plan?
• What is an Individual Healthcare Plan?
• Glen Rose School District Notice of Rights under Section 504