What is the difference between IDEA and Section 504?

IDEA is a federal law that governs all U.S. special education services; Section 504 is a civil rights statute, requiring that schools, public or private, who receive federal financial assistance for educational purposes, not discriminate against children with disabilities.

What is considered a reasonable accommodation?

A reasonable accommodation is any change to the application or hiring process, to the job, to the way the job is done, or the work environment that allows a person with a disability who is qualified for the job to perform the essential functions of that job and enjoy equal employment opportunities.

What is the purpose section 504?

Section 504 protects qualified individuals with disabilities. Under this law, individuals with disabilities are defined as persons with a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities.

What triggers a referral under Section 504?

Reason for Referral: Note: – a disability exists under 504 only if the student currently has a mental or physical impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.

What is not considered a reasonable accommodation?

4. What accommodations are not considered reasonable? Reasonable accommodation does not include removing essential job functions, creating new jobs, and providing personal need items such as eye glasses and mobility aids.

What are four 4 examples of major life activities?

Major life activities include, but are not limited to, caring for oneself, performing manual tasks, seeing, hearing, eating, sleeping, walking, standing, lifting, bending, speaking, breathing, learning, reading, concentrating, thinking, communicating, and working.

How do you write a 504 plan?

7 steps to getting a 504 plan for your child

  1. Document your child’s needs.
  2. Find out who the school’s 504 coordinator is.
  3. Write a formal request for a 504 plan.
  4. Follow up on your request.
  5. Go through the 504 plan evaluation process.
  6. Meet with the school to see if your child qualifies.
  7. Work together to create the 504 plan.