Nevada Joint Union
High School District

Program Overview:

Under the Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504) the Nevada Joint Union High School  District has an obligation to provide a free, appropriate public education to each student within its jurisdiction who is qualified disabled person within the meaning of Section 504. Under Section 504, federal fund recipients must ensure that their programs are accessible to qualified individuals with disabilities.

What Qualifies a Student for a Section 504?

Some children with special needs do not qualify for Special Education. However, these children may qualify for aids and services under Section 504 if he/she has a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities (which is an everyday activity an average person can perform with little or no difficulty), has a record of such impairment, or is regarded as having such an impairment. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) includes the following in its major life activities under the American with Disabilities Act (ADA): walking; seeing; speaking; hearing; breathing; learning; performing manual tasks; caring for oneself; working; sitting; standing; lifting; reaching; thinking; concentrating; interacting with others and sleeping. A short-term condition, such as a broken ankle, generally is not a disability. The test is whether the impairment substantially limits one or more major life activities, and eligibility must be determined by examining the extent, duration and impact of the impairment.

What Is a Section 504 Plan?

For a student who has been identified as disabled within the meaning of Section 504, the Student Study Team (SST) shall be responsible for determining what supplementary aids or services, if any, are necessary for the student to benefit from his or her school program (Section 504 plan). A Section 504 plan may include a description of a modified educational program and/or for the provision of supplementary aids and services. The parent/guardian shall be invited to participate in the SST meeting where the Section 504 plan for the student will be determined. They shall be given an opportunity to examine all relevant records.

What Services Does the District 504 Coordinator Provide?

The District 504 Coordinator provides 504 eligibility and Section 504 plan consultation, administrative training, and information about appeal processes and procedures.