Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act

Definition

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination based on disability in programs and activities that receive federal financial assistance. This law mandates that schools and educational institutions provide equal access and accommodations to students with disabilities, ensuring they have the same opportunities as their non-disabled peers.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Section 504 was enacted in 1973 and is one of the first laws to ensure equal access for individuals with disabilities in education.
2. Under Section 504, schools must identify students who need accommodations and create a plan to support their educational needs without discriminating against them.
3. This law covers a broad range of disabilities, including physical impairments, mental health issues, and learning disabilities.
4. Section 504 compliance requires ongoing evaluation and adjustment of accommodations as needed to best support the student's success in school.
5. Failure to comply with Section 504 can result in loss of federal funding for educational institutions.

Review Questions

• How does Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act impact the responsibilities of educators in accommodating students with disabilities?
  • Section 504 requires educators to actively identify students with disabilities and provide necessary accommodations to ensure equal access to education. This means that teachers must be aware of their students' needs and work collaboratively with specialists to develop plans that support those students. By following this law, educators help create an inclusive learning environment where all students can thrive.
• In what ways does Section 504 differ from the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) regarding the support provided to students with disabilities?
  • While both Section 504 and IDEA aim to protect the rights of students with disabilities, they differ significantly in their scope and requirements. Section 504 applies to all students with disabilities in any federally funded program and focuses on preventing discrimination by providing accommodations. In contrast, IDEA specifically addresses special education services for eligible students, requiring schools to create Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) that outline specialized instruction tailored to each student's unique needs.
• Evaluate the implications of non-compliance with Section 504 for educational institutions and their responsibilities towards students with disabilities.
  • Non-compliance with Section 504 can lead to serious consequences for educational institutions, including potential legal action from affected students or parents. Additionally, failure to meet these requirements may result in significant penalties, such as loss of federal funding. This underscores the importance of adherence to Section 504 as not only a legal obligation but also a moral responsibility to ensure that all students receive equitable access to education and opportunities for success.

Related terms

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): A comprehensive civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life, including jobs, schools, transportation, and all public and private places open to the general public.

Individualized Education Program (IEP): A written document developed for each public school child who is eligible for special education, outlining specific educational goals, services, and accommodations tailored to the student's unique needs.

Accommodations:

Adjustments or modifications provided to students with disabilities to ensure they have equal access to educational opportunities and can fully participate in the learning environment.