Rights afforded by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973:

Section 504 Parent Rights

The 504 Plan ensures that students with disabilities receive the accommodations and support they need to access the curriculum and participate fully in the school environment. This program is designed to remove barriers to learning by providing equitable opportunities for academic success and personal growth.

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 mandates that schools provide reasonable accommodations to students with physical or mental impairments that substantially limit one or more major life activities. The 504 Plan at Colorado Military Academy includes the following components:

• Individualized Accommodations: Tailored supports such as extended time on tests, modified classroom seating, or assistive technology to meet each student’s specific needs.
• Collaborative Approach: Development of plans through a team effort involving parents, teachers, school counselors, and administrators.
• Focus on Accessibility: Ensuring all students have access to educational resources, activities, and facilities, aligning with state and federal guidelines.
• Ongoing Evaluation: Regular reviews of the 504 Plan to adjust accommodations based on the student’s progress and evolving needs.

1. Disability Identification: The student must have a documented physical or mental impairment.
2. Substantial Limitation: The disability must substantially limit one or more major life activities, such as:
   • Learning
   • Concentrating
   • Communicating
   • Walking
   • Breathing
   • Seeing
   • Hearing
   • Caring for oneself
3. Non-Discrimination Standard: The impairment must be significant enough to require accommodations but does not necessarily require specialized instruction, as in an Individualized Education Program (IEP).
4. Evaluation Process: The school team conducts a comprehensive evaluation, including medical records, teacher observations, and parent input, to determine eligibility.

Parents or guardians who believe their child may qualify for a 504 Plan must submit a formal written request to the 504 Coordinator to initiate the evaluation process. This request should include:

• A brief description of the student’s disability and the challenges they face in accessing the curriculum or school environment.
• Relevant medical or professional documentation.
• Contact information for follow-up communication.