STEP 1:

A concern about a student is presented by a parent or teacher.  The 504 Referral Form is completed with the assistance of the school 504 Coordinator.  The concern may address behavioral, medical, physical, or emotional well-being that is limiting the child’s ability to function at school.  Be sure to include any medical reports that are relevant.  

*All referrals for related services must have a parent signature before processing.

STEP 2: Preparing for the 504 Evaluation

If referred for a 504 Plan consideration, the parent/guardian must sign the Parent/Guardian Consent for Initial 504 Evaluation and are given a copy of the Parent Rights (found in ECATS). The 504 Coordinator should also request the parent sign a Release of Information form.  During this time information is collected using a variety of documented sources, which becomes the basis on which the student’s eligibility is determined and plan, if needed. 

When all information is collected, the Eligibility Determination meeting is scheduled and parent/guardian notice is sent.  Be sure to include the school nurse, teachers, and any related service provider.

STEP 3: Determining Eligibility

The 504 team meets to determine if the student meets eligibility and if an accommodation plan is needed.  In determining if a student is eligible, the 504 team must review information from multiple sources and decide if there is enough information to make a decision.  If there is insufficient information, the 504 team can request further evaluation or refer the student to MTSS.  If the team determines the student is eligible, then the team must determine what supports are needed and create an accommodation plan.  

If the student is deemed not eligible, the meeting is complete.

STEP 4: Developing a 504 Accommodation Plan

Once a student is identified as being eligible under 504, a decision is made regarding the type and extent of services the student needs.  The plan is written to address the areas where the student has substantial limitation with reasonable and appropriate accommodations.  A Behavior Intervention Plan may be needed for students with behavioral difficulties and must be completed as soon as possible.  Plans are developed for what a student needs to provide accessibility at the same level as non-disabled peers. 

STEP 5: Implementing the 504 Accommodation Plan

School staff are notified of a student’s accommodations under Section 504.  School staff must implement all accommodations on a student’s plan.  If an accommodation appears not to be benefiting a student, a meeting must be held to determine if that accommodation needs to be removed or replaced. 

STEP 6: Monitoring Student Progress

Progress monitoring, review meetings, and a 3-year reevaluation are conducted to determine if the student continues to meet eligibility and needs support.  If students needs to have accommodations changed, the plan must be revised to reflect the current needs of the student.  School staff or the parent/guardian may request a meeting at any time. 

Related Services

Section 504 requires related services be provided for students with disabilities if these services are essential to meet the student’s educational needs.  A related service can be provided under Section 504 to children who do not receive any other accommodations.

*If the 504 team is considering related services, they must notify the Student Services Coordinator.