504 Program
What is Section 504?
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is Congress's directive to schools receiving any federal
funding to eliminate discrimination based on disability from all aspects of school operation. Since
Jefferson County Schools receive federal dollars, it is required to provide eligible disabled students
with equal access to services, programs, and activities offered by our District. Section 504 is a civil
rights statute and not a special education statute. Therefore, it is the responsibility of regular education
staff and building administration to implement those practices and procedures necessary for a school to
fulfill the requirements of this law. It is also important to understand that schools receive no additional
funding to implement Section 504 accommodations. At each school, the responsibility for insuring
Section 504 compliance rests with the building principal or principal's designee.
Resources
Department of Education Office for Civil Rights
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is Congress's directive to schools receiving any federal
funding to eliminate discrimination based on disability from all aspects of school operation. Since
Jefferson County Schools receive federal dollars, it is required to provide eligible disabled students
with equal access to services, programs, and activities offered by our District. Section 504 is a civil
rights statute and not a special education statute. Therefore, it is the responsibility of regular education
staff and building administration to implement those practices and procedures necessary for a school to
fulfill the requirements of this law. It is also important to understand that schools receive no additional
funding to implement Section 504 accommodations. At each school, the responsibility for insuring
Section 504 compliance rests with the building principal or principal's designee.
Resources
Department of Education Office for Civil Rights
