What is a 504 Plan?

A 504 Plan is designed to ensure that students with disabilities have equal access to education by providing necessary accommodations and modifications, without requiring the child to qualify for special education services under IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act). This plan is rooted in Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which mandates that schools must provide accommodations for students with disabilities to facilitate their participation in the general education curriculum.

The essential goal of a 504 Plan is to remove barriers that may impede a student’s learning experience due to their disabilities. This can include adjustments such as extended time for assignments, alterations to testing environments, or personalized learning strategies tailored to the student's needs.

This plan does not focus on only physical disabilities, nor is it related to gifted education or limitations on educational services. Instead, it encompasses a broad range of disabilities, including but not limited to learning disabilities, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), mental health conditions, and chronic health issues, ensuring that all students have equitable access to educational opportunities.