What is a 504?
A 504 plan is a written document to provide accommodations and support for a student with a physical or mental disability that significantly limits a major life activity, such as their ability to learn in a classroom setting to help provide equal access to education in a regular classroom setting. A 504 plan is based on Section 504 of the U.S. Rehabilitation Act of 1973 which prohibits discrimination based on disability.
Key Features of a 504 Plan:
- Eligibility:
- A student must have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities (e.g., walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, learning, working, etc.).
- The disability does not have to be related to intellectual ability, so things like ADHD, anxiety, chronic illnesses (e.g., asthma, diabetes, etc.), or physical disabilities could qualify.
- Accommodations
- Accommodations are adjustments that allow a student to access the general curriculum without changing the content. For example:
- Extended time on tests
- Preferential seating
- Allowing breaks during class
- Accommodations are adjustments that allow a student to access the general curriculum without changing the content. For example:
- How It Works:
- Parents or guardians usually request a 504 evaluation if they believe their child has a disability that affects learning.
- A team (including school staff like teachers, counselors, and administrators) assesses the child’s needs and determines what accommodations may be appropriate.
- The 504 plan is reviewed annually and revised as needed.
504 Public Notice
We are dedicated to providing equal admission, educational and employment opportunities, to all people regardless of disability. To this end, the Board of Education has adopted regulations, which establish procedures for the orderly settlement of complaints of students and employees of the district regarding alleged discrimination on the basis of disability.
The Superintendent has designated the Director of Special Education as our Compliance Officer who may be reached at the Hilliard City Schools’ Administrative Offices, 2140 Atlas Street, Columbus Ohio 43228.
To help facilitate the administration of Special Education and 504 Plans, the Hilliard City Schools Board put in place policies including but not limited to:
If you would like information regarding Federal regulations, please access the United States Department of Education’s website at www.ed.gov.
