What is Section 504?
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a civil rights law prohibiting discrimination based on disability in public and private programs receiving federal financial assistance. It ensures that all students are afforded the same opportunities to access both academic and non-academic components of the school environment regardless of their disability.
Child Find Notice
It is the responsibility of Douglas County School District (DCSD) to identify any child who is a resident of DCSD who may have a disability, regardless of the severity of the disability. Children eligible for Section 504 accommodations or services include those children who have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits a major life activity.
If you suspect your child has a disability please contact your child’s teacher, the School 504 Coordinator, or contact the District’s 504 Coordinator, for additional information.
When does a student qualify as having a disability under Section 504?
This legislation defines a person with a disability as anyone who:
Signs that could show a need for an evaluation might include:
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Truancy issues.
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Several or increasing disciplinary referrals
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Poor or declining grades in classes and assessments
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Showing signs of depression, organizational issues, withdrawal, worrying, inattention, difficulty with emotional regulation
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Frequent or increasing behavioral difficulties
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Diagnosis of dyslexia/dysgraphia from outside provider
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Chronic illnesses (e.g. cancer and long term effects of treatment, diabetes, life threatening allergies, arthritis, Crohn’s, etc.)
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Students transitioning out of special education programs
What is a Section 504 Plan?
*Modification here means modifications to the school’s policies, practices, or procedures. Modification of curriculum and what the child needs to learn falls under a special education plan which includes specialized instruction (IEP).
Related services might include:
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School health services
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Counseling/social work services
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Transportation
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Audiology services
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Speech-language services
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Physical and occupational therapy services
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Psychological/behavioral services
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Assistive technology device and/or services
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Adaptive PE services
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Orientation and mobility services
When does a student qualify for a Section 504 Plan?
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This is a 504 Team decision based on information gathered by the team about the student.
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If the student with a disability requires adjustments, accommodations, modifications or other related aids and services in order to benefit from and/or access any aspect of the school’s educational environment, then program a student is eligible for a 504 Plan.
If the student does not require adjustments, accommodations, modifications, accommodations or related aids and services, they are considered “technically eligible” and a 504 Plan is not needed. However, periodic review of needs should occur and the student and family are protected by procedural safeguards.
Additional information can be obtained from:
The U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights
Region VIII, Federal Building, Suite 310
1244 Speer Blvd.
Denver, CO 80204-3582
(303) 844-5695