Section 504

Students may qualify for a 504 Plan if they have a physical or mental disability that substantially limits one or more major life activities. This includes learning, concentrating, walking, breathing, communicating, or managing emotions and behavior.

A formal diagnosis is not always required, but the student’s need for accommodations must be supported by documentation, observations, and team input.

Examples of conditions that may qualify:

• ADHD

• Anxiety or depression

• Diabetes, epilepsy, or asthma

• Hearing, vision, or mobility impairments

• Temporary conditions (e.g., injury recovery)

A referral for a 504 Plan can be made by:

• A parent or guardian

• A classroom teacher

• A school counselor, nurse, or administrator

• Any school staff member familiar with the student’s needs

• The Guidance Team through data review

 

If you believe your student may benefit from a 504 Plan, you can initiate the evaluation process by completing and submitting the 504 Student Referral Form via email to your student’s school counselor and/or to the district’s 504 Coordinator.

How the 504 Evaluation Process Works

Once a 504 referral is submitted, the school’s Guidance Team (GT) begins the evaluation process. Here’s what to expect:

Step 1: Parent Notification and Consent

• You will receive a copy of your rights under Section 504

• The school will request your written consent before beginning an evaluation

Step 2: Data Collection

• The GT gathers relevant academic, behavioral, medical, and attendance data

• Families may be asked to provide outside records, if available

Step 3: Eligibility Meeting

• A team meeting will be scheduled with you to review all collected data

• The team determines if your child qualifies under Section 504

• You will receive written notice of the decision

Step 4: Plan Development

• If eligible, a 504 Plan is created with input from you and the team

• The plan outlines specific accommodations based on your child’s needs

Step 5: Plan Implementation

• The plan is shared with relevant staff and accommodations are implemented

• Teachers and staff begin using the supports listed in the plan

Step 6: Documentation

• The 504 Plan is stored in the district’s secure system

• You will receive a copy of the finalized plan

Step 7: Monitoring and Review

• The plan is reviewed annually and re-evaluated every three years

• You may request a review at any time if your child’s needs change

A 504 Plan outlines the accommodations and supports a student needs to access school on an equal basis.

These adjustments help reduce barriers caused by a disability, ensuring your child can participate in learning, activities, and services.

Examples of 504 accommodations:

• Extra time on assignments or tests

• Access to a quiet space for testing

• Preferential seating or classroom adjustments

• Health or medical supports during the day

• Use of assistive technology

• Scheduled breaks or behavior supports

• Behavioral or environmental adjustments (e.g., visual schedules, calming areas)

• Modified homework or reduced workload

📌504 Plans are individualized and developed collaboratively between the school and family. Accommodations must be followed by all staff.

Each member of the school team—and the family—plays a key role.

🏛️ District 504 Coordinator	🎓 All School Staff
• Oversees 504 processes and ensures legal compliance • Supports school staff with training and documentation • Monitors timelines and documentation • Updates district systems and ensures finalized plans are recorded                     • Primary contact for district-level 504 questions	• Maintain confidentiality of student information • Identify students who may need support • Report access issues or problems with implementation • Support inclusive environments • Communicate concerns to the 504 case manager or Coordinator

🏫 Counselors 504 Case Managers	🩺 School Nurses Case Managers
• Coordinate referrals, evaluations, and team meetings • Communicate with families and explain Section 504 rights • Help develop and monitor 504 Plans • Ensure annual reviews and required reevaluations are completed	• Coordinate evaluations when medical or health needs are involved • Communicate with families and review health documentation • Help develop and monitor health-based 504 Plans • Ensure medical accommodations are implemented and reviewed

🍀 Parents & Guardians	📚 Teachers & Classroom Staff
• Share concerns and documentation • Participate in meetings and decision-making • Support accommodation use at home • Request updates or plan changes as needed                                                       • Communicate changes in your child’s needs	• Implement accommodations as written in the plan                           • Foster a respectful learning environment • Attend meetings and collaborate with the team • Adjust teaching methods if needed • Monitor and report progress or concerns

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504 Handbook

Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction

Non-Discrimination Notice

Grievance Procedure - 3210P

504 Grievance Form

Student Referral Form

504 District Policy 2162

504 District Procedure 2162P