Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a federal civil rights law designed to protect individuals with disabilities from discrimination. In a public high school setting, Section 504 ensures that eligible students have equal access to educational programs, activities, facilities, and services—leveling the playing field so every student can thrive.

Who Qualifies for a 504 Plan?

To be eligible for protection and accommodations under Section 504, a student must meet two basic criteria:

1. Have a physical or mental impairment (this can include chronic medical conditions like asthma or diabetes, ADHD, anxiety, depression, mobility impairments, or learning differences).
2. The impairment must substantially limit one or more major life activities.

What counts as a "major life activity"? Major life activities include, but are not limited to: learning, reading, concentrating, thinking, communicating, seeing, hearing, breathing, walking, and working, as well as the operation of major bodily functions.