Referral and Eligibility

Referral Process

The process under Section 504 begins with a referral. The school district will take measures to identify and locate students with a disability through SST (Student Support Team). If a staff member or the SST believes that a child may have a qualifying disability, they will make a referral for a 504 evaluation. A parent or guardian may also request a 504 evaluation for the student by notifying the campus administrator, counselor, or 504 coordinator. Such a request is best made in writing.

Eligibility Criteria

A person eligible for Section 504 protection/services:

  • has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities

  • has a record of such an impairment, or

  • is regarded as having such an impairment

To determine eligibility under Section 504 the committee must consider all the following questions:

1. Does the student have a physical or mental impairment?
2. Does the impairment substantially limit one or more major life activities?