Bogalusa City Schools

What is Section 504?

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a federal civil rights law that protects the rights of individuals with disabilities in programs and activities that receive federal financial assistance, including public schools.

Students eligible under Section 504:

• Have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities or bodily functions.

• May not qualify under IDEA, but still require accommodations in the general education setting to access learning.

🧠 Who Qualifies?

A student may qualify if they:

• Have been evaluated and determined to have a substantial limitation in a major life activity (e.g., walking, seeing, learning, concentrating, breathing).

• Need accommodations to access instruction or participate fully in the school environment.

Not all students with academic or medical concerns qualify under 504: the condition must present a substantial limitation compared to most students in the general population.

👥 504 Evaluation & Plan Process

• The Student Assistance Team (SAT) serves as the 504 Committee.

• This team reviews:

  • The student’s disability

  • Impact on education

  • Need for accommodations

• If eligible, the team develops an Individual Accommodation Plan (IAP).

• Parental consent is required for evaluation.

• Parents are notified of all decisions and have the right to an impartial hearing if they disagree.

📂 Documentation:

• Originals sent to the District 504 Department

• Copies placed in student’s 504 folder

• Copies provided to the parent/guardian

🔄 Annual Reviews & Compliance

• 504 plans are reviewed annually.

• The process ensures ongoing alignment with student needs.

• Section 504 compliance is the responsibility of the general education system, not special education.

📣 504 = Access. Equity. Protection.

Section 504 ensures that students with disabilities receive equal access to a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the general education setting.

📝 How to Request a Section 504 Evaluation

If you believe your child may have a disability that substantially limits a major life activity and may require accommodations to access the school program, you have the right to request a Section 504 evaluation.

To initiate the process:

• Submit a written request to your child’s school counselor, teacher, or administrator.

• The school’s SAT/504 Committee will review your concerns and determine if an evaluation is warranted.

• Parental consent is required before any evaluation can begin.

📞 For Questions or Support Regarding Section 504:

Contact:
Deondra Warner
Supervisor of Special Populations
Bogalusa City Schools
📧 deondra.warner@bogschools.org
📞 985-281-2100