What is Section 504 of the Vocational Rehabilitation Act?

What is Section 504 of the Vocational Rehabilitation Act?

Section 504 forbids organizations and employers from excluding or denying individuals with disabilities an equal opportunity to receive program benefits and services. It defines the rights of individuals with disabilities to participate in, and have access to, program benefits and services.

What is covered under Section 504?

Section 504 prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in programs or activities that receive Federal financial assistance from the U.S. Department of Education. Title II prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability by state and local governments.

What is a 504 classification?

504 Plan Defined The 504 Plan is a plan developed to ensure that a child who has a disability identified under the law and is attending an elementary or secondary educational institution receives accommodations that will ensure their academic success and access to the learning environment.

What are reasonable accommodations under Section 504?

Question: What is a reasonable accommodation under Section 504? Answer: A reasonable accommodation is a change, adaptation, or modification to a policy, program, service, or workplace which will allow a qualified person with a disability to participate fully in a program, take advantage of a service, or perform a job.

Is 504 considered a disability?

Section 504 has a broader definition of a disability than IDEA. (It says a disability must substantially limit one or more basic life activities. This can include learning, reading, communicating, and thinking.) That’s why a child who doesn’t qualify for an IEP might still be able to get a 504 plan.

How do I prepare for a 504 Meeting?

1. Make sure you’re invited.
2. Pull and review your child’s records.
3. Think about accommodations.
4. Help the 504 team get to know your child.
5. Ask for clarification.
6. Make sure the plan is complete and specific.
7. Ask for a copy of your child’s new 504 plan.

Does a 504 need a medical diagnosis?

Section 504 requires a child to have an evaluation before receiving a 504 Plan. Decisions about who qualifies for Section 504 cannot be based solely on a single source of data (i.e. a doctor’s diagnosis or grades). A medical diagnosis is NOT required under Section 504.