Nondiscrimination (Section 504)
Section 504 for Students (Nondiscrimination)
Welcome & Overview
At Douglas County School District, we are committed to providing each and every student with equal access to high-quality educational opportunities and school activities. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a federal civil rights statute that protects individuals with disabilities from discrimination in programs and activities that receive federal financial assistance. Section 504 guarantees two protections for students:
- Nondiscrimination & Equal Access: Section 504 prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in any academic program, facility, or extracurricular activity provided by the district.
- Free appropriate public education (FAPE): Eligible students with disabilities are entitled to aids and services and/or accommodations designed to meet their individual educational needs as adequately as the needs of non-disabled students are met.
DCSD 504 Overview for Staff, Parents & Community Members
Quick Links & Resources
- To get started, reach out to your student’s school!
- Find Your Student’s 504 Coordinator: 2026-27 Master 504 Contact List
- Parent & Student Rights:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A Section 504 Plan is a formal plan that outlines accommodations and supports provided within the general education environment. Its primary objective is to remove environmental, physical, or instructional barriers caused by a disability, ensuring the student has equal access to educational programs and activities.
How is Disability Defined Under Section 504? ?
A student qualifies as having a disability under Section 504 if they have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities or bodily functions.
Major life activities and bodily functions include (but are not limited to): learning, concentrating, reading, communicating, breathing, eating, sleeping, walking, standing, thinking, and the operation of major functions such as the immune, digestive, neurological, or respiratory systems.
Common Examples of Conditions Supported
Section 504 supports a broad spectrum of medical, physical, and mental health conditions, including:
- Chronic Health & Medical Conditions: Diabetes, Asthma, Severe Allergies, Epilepsy, Crohn's Disease, Celiac Disease, Migraines
- Neurodivergent Conditions: ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorders
- Mental Health Conditions: Anxiety, Depression, PTSD
- Learning & Processing Differences: Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Dyscalculia
Does a medical diagnosis automatically grant a 504 Plan?
No. A medical diagnosis provides important information, but eligibility is not automatic. The 504 team must evaluate whether the documented condition causes a substantial limitation to a major life activity in the school environment and requires accommodations to ensure equal access.
Can a student with good grades still qualify for a 504 Plan?
Yes. Academic grades are only one factor evaluated by the team. If a student experiences substantial physical or mental impairment, or must exert significantly more effort or time due to their condition to achieve academic success, they may still qualify for a Section 504 Plan.
Who implements the accommodations in a 504 Plan?
Accommodations are implemented by general education classroom teachers, school specialists, administrative personnel, and relevant support staff who interact with the student during the school day.
Can you explain the differences between Section 504 and Special Education (IEP)?
Section 504 Plan: Provides accommodations and access supports within the general education environment for students with disabilities under federal civil rights law.
Special Education (IEP under IDEA): Provides specialized instruction, modified curricula, and related services for students whose disability adversely affects educational performance under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. Students with disabilities who need special education (in addition to related aids/services and/or accommodations) receive Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) that meet the requirements of both Section 504 and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). More information regarding the IDEA and special education services in DCSD can be found on the Special Education webpage.
Important Documents & District Resources
Grievance Procedures
- DCSD: Section 504 Complaint & Grievance Procedures
- Federal: Department of Education: Office of Civil Rights (OCR)
External Guidance & Resources
- U.S. Department of Education: Section 504
- U.S. Department of Education Parent & Educator Resource Guide
- Departamento de Educación de EE. UU.: Protección para los estudiantes con discapacidades
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