What is Section 504?

Section 504 is part of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which prohibits discrimination based solely upon disability in any program, receiving federal financial assistance.
Any public school, that receives federal funds, is subject to the requirement of Section 504. Students who have a disability that meets the general definition of a disability, but that does not fall into one of the IDEA categories, may be eligible for services under Section 504. Unlike IDEA, Section 504 does not describe a precise procedural scheme for implementation. Instead, school districts set their own policies, but most use a process very similar to that used for special education students.

If you have questions, regarding Section 504, you may contact your child's school counselor or Dr. Laran Adkins at 256-845-9288.