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Section 504

What is Section 504?

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a civil rights law that prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in programs and activities, public or private, that receive federal financial assistance. This law conforms to the definition of disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act (ADAAA). Section 504 does not provide funding for special education or related services, but does ensure legal and procedural safeguards for students under the Free and Appropriate Public Education (F.A.P.E.), as required by federal law.

How Does a Student Qualify for a Section 504 Plan?


There is no specific mention of learning disabilities in Section 504, however the law defines a person as disabled if he or she:

  • has a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities,
  • has a record of such an impairment, or
  • is regarded as having such an impairment. 28 CFR Sec. 36.104

Under the regulation, learning, reading, thinking and concentrating among others listed in the ADAAA are all considered major life activities. As a general rule, if a child is eligible for services under IDEA, he or she qualifies for protection under Section 504. However, not all students covered by Section 504 are eligible for IDEA-related services. Section 504 has much broader definitions of disability and so it pertains to many more people.


What is the 504 Determination Process?


To learn more about the 504 determination/eligibility process in Southfield Public Schools, please view the link below:
SPS 504 Determination Practices & Processes

Section 504 Resources:
Select the information / resource link below, that applies to you:
Parent & Student Resources
Teacher Resources
Administrators / Building 504 Coordinator Resources

District Section 504 Coordinator:
Paula Lightsey
Office: 248-746-8565
E-mail: paula.lightsey@southfieldk12.org