Transcript Section 504
Section 504
What is it, and what
does it have to do with
ADHD?
First, let’s say what 504 is
NOT.
It
is not an IEP (individual education
plan). An IEP can modify the CONTENT
of what a child learns. Section 504
makes
ACCOMMODATIONS in the child’s
LEARNING ENVIRONMENT.
What is Section 504?
Section 504 is anti-discrimination legislation,
a civil rights statute,
not special education services.
It is about providing accommodations that
will compensate for a disability so that the
student will have an equal chance to
participate in class, not reduce
expectations or modify grades.
How does it do this?
If a child is determined eligible for a
504 plan, he/she may receive
accommodations and modifications in
the classroom environment.
What do you mean by
accommodations or
modifications?
This
means changing the way things are
usually done in order to take into account a
child’s disability-related needs. Examples
may include modifying rules, policies, or
practices; removal of architectural or
communication barriers; or providing aids,
services, or assistive technology.
Is this like an I.E.P.?
No.
An individualized education program
modifies the LEVEL of CONTENT taught,
and a 504 plan modifies the learning
environment by use of modifications such
as peer tutoring, oral testing, abbreviated
assignments, longer work time, alternative
materials, cooperative learning, etc.
How do I know if my child can
qualify?
Parents,teachers,
or Support Team can
request a meeting with the 504 committee.
At
the meeting, the 504 committee
determines if the child’s disability has a
significant impact on their educational
performance.
Do all children with ADHD
qualify?
No.
The purpose of a 504 meeting is to
determine whether or not a child is
eligible. Some children with ADHD do well
without modifications or accommodations.
Also…
The
child must have a medical
diagnosis of ADHD; this condition
must substantially limit one or more
major life activities and interfere
with their academics.
How will I know the 504 plan is
being followed?
Stay
in touch with your child’s
teacher. Know your parental rights
under 504.
Each year, look for an annual review
meeting. If you don’t hear from
someone, call the counselor’s office.
Does my child stay on the same
504 forever?
All
children change and mature. If
modifications or accommodations are no
longer needed, a 504 review may determine
the need for termination.
For example, a child may need a quiet place
to test in 3rd grade, but by 6th grade,
they may have developed strategies to
tune out extraneous classroom noise.
Who is usually on the 504
committee?
You,
the parent.
A 504 chairperson.
An administrator.
The child’s classroom teacher.
Any other relevant adults at school who
are closely associated with the child’s
needs.
Who is eligible under Section
504?
If
a child has a physical or mental
impairment that substantially limits
one or more major life activities.
A child who has a record of such
impairment.
A child who is regarded as having
such an impairment.
What other disabilities fall
under 504?
Chronic asthma and severe allergies
Behavior Disorders
Communicable diseases such as HIV, AIDS, or TB
Temporary disabling conditions due to accidents or
illnesses
Physical handicaps such as spina bifida, hemophilia,
and conditions requiring crutches
Diabetes
Any other disability that limits a major life
activity
What does NOT change once
my child is determined eligible?
They
are still expected to pass tests
demonstrating mastery of basic skills.
Content is not modified.
A student in a 504 program is still
subject to the school’s code of
conduct and academic standards.
Any questions?