What Parents Should Know About 504 Plans in U.S. Schools
What Is a 504 Plan?
A 504 plan is a formal plan developed by a public school to ensure that a student with a disability has equal access to education. It is named after Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, a federal civil rights law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in programs that receive federal funding, including public schools.
Unlike special education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a 504 plan does not provide specialized instruction. Instead, it provides accommodations and supports that allow a student to access the general education curriculum alongside peers.
Who Qualifies for a 504 Plan?
A student may qualify for a 504 plan if they have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, such as learning, reading, concentrating, communicating, or walking.
Eligibility is broader than special education eligibility. Students who may not qualify for an Individualized Education Program (IEP) under IDEA can still be protected under Section 504.
Examples of conditions that may qualify include:
ADHD Anxiety disorders Diabetes Asthma Epilepsy Temporary or chronic medical conditions Learning differences that do not require specialized instruction
Schools are responsible for evaluating whether a student meets the criteria under federal law.
How a 504 Plan Works
A 504 plan outlines the specific accommodations a school will provide to support a student’s access to education. These accommodations are individualized and based on the student’s needs.
Common accommodations may include:
Extended time on tests or assignments Preferential seating Modified homework requirements Access to medication or medical supports during the school day Behavioral supports or breaks Adjusted classroom environment
The plan is typically developed by a school-based team and reviewed periodically. Unlike an IEP, there is no federal requirement for annual goals or specialized instruction.
504 Plans vs. IEPs: Key Differences
While both are designed to support students with disabilities, 504 plans and IEPs serve different purposes.
504 plans focus on access and accommodations under a civil rights law. IEPs provide specialized instruction and services under special education law.
A student cannot be denied a 504 plan simply because they do not qualify for an IEP. The legal standards are different, and schools must evaluate each request independently.
Parent Rights Under Section 504
Parents have important rights under Section 504, including the right to:
Request an evaluation Participate in plan development Receive notice of decisions affecting their child Dispute decisions through school grievance procedures or the Office for Civil Rights (OCR)
Unlike IDEA, Section 504 does not require the same procedural safeguards, which can sometimes lead to confusion. However, the protections are enforceable under federal law.
What to Do If a School Denies a 504 Plan
If a school denies a 504 plan, parents can:
Request written documentation explaining the decision Ask for a review of evaluation data File a grievance with the school district File a complaint with the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights
Schools receiving federal funds are legally obligated to comply with Section 504.
Why 504 Plans Matter
For many students, a 504 plan can be the difference between struggling silently and being able to fully participate in school. These plans are not special favors or optional supports; they are civil rights protections designed to ensure equal access to education.
Understanding how 504 plans work empowers families to advocate effectively and ensures that students receive the accommodations they are legally entitled to.
