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504
(Section 504 of the
Rehabilitation Act of 1973)
WHAT IS IT?
The 504 Team is a group of BES staff assembled to address a particular child's needs as directed by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This is a nondiscrimination law that protects students who have a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities by ensuring a free appropriate public education (FAPE) as adequately as that of students without impairments.
WHO IS ON THE TEAM?
School team members are chosen based on their ability to provide pertinent information in support of the child. At a minimum, the team consists of the teacher and school counselor.
HOW DO I ACCESS IT?
One of two ways:
1. Your child's teacher may refer him/her.
If this occurs the school counselor will contact you.
2. You may refer your child.
Please contact the school counselor for a referral form.
WHEN ARE 504 MEETINGS HELD?
Generally 504 Meetings are scheduled for Tuesday mornings at 7:30. If this time is not convenient for you another time may be arranged.
WHO IS INVITED TO THE MEETING?
The 504 Team, the parents, any other professionals who may have pertinent information to share are invited to the meeting. Beyond this, the child may be invited if it is developmentally appropriate.
WHAT IS THE PROCESS?
1. A referral form is completed and submitted to the school counselor.
2. Parents provide consent for an evaluation to be completed. They are provided with a copy of the Summary of Parent/Student Rights Under Section 504.
3. Upon receipt of pertinent information, the school counselor contacts parents to arrange a meeting.
4. The meeting convenes and covers the following:
A. consideration of information from several sources as to evidence of possible impairment and impact on school performance,
B. 1) if a qualifying impairment is determined to exist, a plan is developed that addresses the impact of the impairment on the student,
2) if no qualifying impairment is identified the reason will be documented.
C. parents will be advised of the grievance procedure (34 CFR Section 104.7(b)),
5. The meeting notes are transcribed and sent to the parents for review and signature. They are then to be returned to the school for implementation.
6. The Team meets to review the plan once per academic year.
7. If the Team determines that the impairment has been resolved, the 504 Plan may be closed.
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