Section 504

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a federal law that is designed to prevent discrimination on the basis of disability in programs or activities receiving federal financial assistance from the United States Department of Education.

A child may be found to be an eligible student under Section 504 if they have a mental or physical impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.

Under Section 504, the Rockwood School District recognizes the responsibility to prevent discrimination in policies and practices regarding its students and staff. Additionally, the District has specific responsibilities outlined under Section 504 to identify, evaluate and determine eligibility, as well as to ensure that students with disabilities have access to a free appropriate education in the least restrictive environment.

If the parent or guardian disagrees with the determination made by the professional staff of the school district, they have a right to a hearing with an impartial hearing officer as per Board Policy 2674: Appeal Procedures for Identification, Evaluation, or Education Placement Under Section 504.