Section 504
Section 504 is a federal law designed to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities in programs and activities that receive federal financial funds.
The Section 504 regulation from the U.S. Department of Education requires school districts to provide “free appropriate public education to each qualified student with a disability in its jurisdiction regardless of the nature and severity of the disability that consists of the provision of regular or special education and related aids and services designed to meet the student’s individual needs.”
It is the Ames Community School District’s responsibility to identify and evaluate students with disabilities, and if a student is found to be eligible under Section 504, to afford access to appropriate educational services.
Some students may be protected by Section 504 but NOT qualify for special education. These students are eligible for accommodations to give them an opportunity to receive an education that is comparable to their peers without disabilities.
Read the 504 handbook for more information.