North Clackamas
School District
504 Plans
A Section 504 Plan ensures your child receives the support they need if they have a health condition or disability that makes it challenging for them to learn or participate fully at school.
Section 504: The Federal Civil Rights Statute
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a federal civil rights statute that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities. Specifically, it states:
In schools, this law ensures that students with qualifying conditions receive a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). Unlike an Individualized Education Program (IEP) under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a 504 Plan generally does not require Specially Designed Instruction (SDI). Instead, a 504 Plan is an individualized plan that documents the accommodations and services required to remove barriers and allow your child to learn alongside their peers.
Eligibility and Qualifying Impairments
Under Section 504, a person with a disability is legally defined as anyone who:
- Has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.
- Has a record or history of such an impairment.
- Is regarded as having such an impairment.
Conditions that may be covered under Section 504 include ADHD, diabetes, asthma, food allergies, anxiety disorders, and other chronic illnesses.
A student may be eligible if their physical or mental impairment substantially limits one or more major life activities, such as learning, reading, concentrating, walking, breathing, or other bodily functions. Eligibility is determined on a case-by-case basis by considering how the condition impacts your child's education.
If you have questions or would like to learn more about whether a 504 Plan might be appropriate for your child, please contact your child’s counselor.