Although IDEA and Section 504 are similar, the difference is in the severity of the disability. For children that are not severely disabled, Section 504 provides a more flexible and, usually, quicker way to obtain services. IDEA specifically requires children to be disabled to the degree they would require special education services.
If found eligible for Section 504, the school district would be required to make adaptations for your child in instructional methods. A few examples of services under Section 504:
- Reducing the amount of homework or class work
- Allowing children to have an extra set of books at home
- Behavior management techniques used by teachers in the classroom
- Daily or weekly reports home to parents from teachers
- Assistance in organizational skills
- Assistance in planning assignments
If you feel your child is eligible for services under Section 504, you will need to write a letter to the school requesting an evaluation. (Make sure your request is dated.) If your child has been diagnosed with ADD/ADHD or a related condition, you can attach a letter from your physician. However, a medical diagnosis is not necessary. If the school district believes your child requires a medical diagnosis, the school district would be required to pay for a medical evaluation.
Once the school completes the evaluation, they are required to notify you of the results. If your child is found eligible, there should be a meeting to determine what services may benefit your child. Some of those included in the meeting might be: teachers, school psychologist, school administrators, and guidance counselors. You should also be invited to the meeting.
During this meeting, you should be prepared with a list of modifications or accommodations you feel would benefit your child. Together, you and the teachers should be able to work out a plan to help your child succeed.
If your child is found ineligible, you should be notified of the Due Process Procedures that would allow you to file a request for a review.
You might also be interested in:
Getting Involved in Your Child's Education
Ten Suggestions for Winning the Homework Wars
