Questions and Answers about Section 504

How is a 504 referral made?

A parent or teacher may begin the referral process by talking to the schools principal or assistant
principal, a school counselor, or the schools 504 coordinator (Ruby Locklear).
504 Evaluation/Assessment
The students 504 team will decide what assessments are needed to determine whether a student has a
disability under section 504.
What is a student with a disability under section 504?
A student is considered disabled under Section 504 if the student:
a. Has a physical or mental impairment/disability which substantially limits one or more major life
activities.
b. Has a record or history of such an impairment; or
c. Is regarded as having such an impairment
Students from all three categories are protected from discrimination under Section 504.
Protected from Discrimination
Student has a mental or
physical impairment
Student has a history of such an
impairment
Student is regarded as having
such an impairment

YES

FAPE Requirements (504

Student Accommodation Plan)
YES, if needed

YES

NO

YES

NO

When should school staff refer a student for Section 504 consideration?
A referral should be made when the staff person has reason to believe that a student has a mental or
physical impairment that substantially limits a major life activity. Factors that may suggest the presence
of a disability include:

A known mental health diagnosis;

Grades dropping with other indicators of possible disability;
Substantial behavioral referrals with other indicators of possible disability;
Hospitalization
Chronic illness or physical condition;
Inability to attend school based on illness or mental health condition;
Determination that a student does not qualify (or continue to qualify) for special education but
evaluation indicates a mental or physical impairment;
Parent concern with other indicators of possible disability;
History of disability or at risk designation with other indicators of present concern.