504 plan

Definition

A 504 plan is a legal document created under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 that outlines specific accommodations and support services for students with disabilities in order to ensure their access to education. This plan is designed to provide the necessary adjustments to the learning environment so that students with disabilities can participate fully in academic programs alongside their peers. It promotes educational equity by tailoring the learning experience to meet individual needs, ensuring that students have equal opportunities to succeed in school.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The 504 plan applies to students with a wide range of disabilities, including physical, mental, and emotional conditions, as long as they significantly impact a student's ability to learn.
2. Unlike an IEP, a 504 plan does not require specific educational goals but focuses on necessary accommodations and supports within the general education environment.
3. A 504 plan can include modifications such as extended test-taking time, preferential seating, or assistive technology to help students perform at their best.
4. Schools are required by law to evaluate students suspected of having a disability and to develop a 504 plan if eligible, ensuring they receive appropriate support.
5. Parents or guardians have the right to be involved in the development and review of a 504 plan, which should be revisited regularly to ensure it continues to meet the student’s needs.

Review Questions

• What are the key differences between a 504 plan and an Individualized Education Program (IEP) in terms of their purpose and requirements?
  • The main difference between a 504 plan and an IEP lies in their purpose and the types of services they provide. A 504 plan is designed for students with disabilities who require accommodations to access education but do not necessarily need specialized instruction. In contrast, an IEP is tailored for students who require specific educational goals and specialized services due to more significant disabilities. While both plans aim to support students with disabilities, the IEP includes detailed objectives and assessments related to educational progress.
• How does the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) influence the creation and implementation of 504 plans in schools?
  • The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) establishes civil rights protections for individuals with disabilities, mandating that public entities, including schools, provide equal access and opportunities. This legislation reinforces the necessity of creating 504 plans by requiring schools to accommodate students with disabilities so they can participate fully in educational programs. The ADA ensures that discrimination based on disability is prohibited, making it crucial for schools to evaluate students' needs and implement appropriate supports outlined in their 504 plans.
• Evaluate the effectiveness of 504 plans in promoting educational equity for students with disabilities and discuss potential improvements that could enhance these plans.
  • The effectiveness of 504 plans in promoting educational equity can be seen in how they provide necessary accommodations that allow students with disabilities to succeed alongside their peers. However, potential improvements could include better training for educators on implementing these plans effectively, ensuring consistent monitoring of student progress, and enhancing parental involvement in the development process. By fostering collaboration among educators, parents, and specialists, schools can better tailor 504 plans to meet individual needs and improve overall outcomes for students with disabilities.

Related terms

Individualized Education Program (IEP): An IEP is a customized educational plan for students with disabilities that outlines specific educational goals, services, and accommodations tailored to meet their unique needs.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): The ADA is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability and requires public entities, including schools, to provide equal access and opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Accommodations: Accommodations are modifications or supports provided in an educational setting to help students with disabilities access the curriculum and demonstrate their knowledge.