Section 504

Meeting the needs of disabled students under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (“Section 504”) is a federal civil rights law. It is designed to eliminate disability discrimination in programs and activities that receive federal funds. Since all public school districts receive federal funds, all public school districts must comply with Section 504. Under Section 504, denying a disabled student a free appropriate public education (“FAPE”) constitutes disability discrimination.

Please see the following materials for more information about Section 504 and LWSD.

Examples of accommodations

The list below only provides examples; the 504 team can create accommodations that they agree will best provide the student FAPE.

FAQ now that you have a 504

This FAQ is intended for those families whose child already has Section 504 accommodations.

FAQ now that you are in high school

This FAQ has been created for you, the student. You are now in high school and your high school would like to help you learn how to advocate for yourself regarding your Section 504 accommodations. Did you know that when you go to college or start a job, no one will ask you what accommodations you need? This is because the law forbids them from asking. So, if you don't tell them, they will never know. But they don't want you to just tell them what accommodation you need, they want you to explain how it helps you.

To help you begin understanding how to advocate for yourself, these FAQs are meant to guide you toward taking ownership for your own education.

FAQ when getting ready for college

This FAQ has been created for you, the student.

You have now been at your high school for a while and it’s time to prepare for taking the PSAT in 10th grade. For questions about accommodations on the PSAT/SAT tests, please visit the College Board Website. For questions about accommodations on the ACT test, please visit the ACT Testing Website.

These FAQs answer some basic questions about what to look for in a college; and what to expect once you get to college. All of the advice given to any high school student applies to you too! Here are some additional things to know about.