If your child is struggling at school due to attention, anxiety, learning differences, or a medical or emotional condition—but does not appear to need specialized instruction—a Section 504 plan may be an appropriate and powerful support.

Many parents are unaware that Section 504 is a civil rights law, not a special education program. This guide explains what Section 504 is, who qualifies, what schools are required to provide, common myths, and how to formally request a Section 504 evaluation using a parent-ready script.

What is a Section 504 plan?

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a federal civil rights law designed to ensure that students with disabilities have equal access to education. A Section 504 plan outlines accommodations and supports that allow a student to access the general education curriculum on an equal basis with peers.

Unlike special education, Section 504 does not provide specialized instruction. Instead, it provides accommodations that reduce barriers to learning.

Who Qualifies for a Section 504 Plan?

A student may qualify for a Section 504 plan if they have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, such as:

• Learning
• Reading
• Concentrating
• Thinking
• Regulating emotions or behavior
• Attending school

Common conditions that may qualify include:

• ADHD
• Anxiety disorders
• Depression
• Dyslexia or other learning differences
• Autism spectrum differences
• Medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, epilepsy)

Eligibility is determined by the school, based on evaluation data and team discussion.

What Does a Section 504 Plan Provide?

A Section 504 plan may include accommodations such as:

• Extended time on assignments or tests
• Preferential seating
• Reduced workload without reducing expectations
• Breaks for regulation or movement
• Modified testing environment
• Assistive technology

Accommodations are individualized and should directly address the student’s documented needs.

Section 504 vs. IEP: What’s the Difference?

While both protect students with disabilities, they serve different purposes:

• Section 504 provides accommodations to ensure equal access
• IEPs provide specialized instruction and related services

Many students start with a Section 504 plan. Others require an IEP when accommodations alone are not sufficient.

Common Myths About Section 504 Plans

Myth: A 504 plan is informal or optional
Reality: Section 504 is a federal civil rights law. Schools are legally required to comply.

Myth: Only students with diagnoses qualify
Reality: A diagnosis can help, but eligibility is based on functional impact.

Myth: Schools can deny evaluations if grades are “okay”
Reality: Equal access—not grades alone—determines eligibility.

Myth: 504 plans are only for mild issues
Reality: Many students with significant anxiety or ADHD rely on 504 supports.

When Should Parents Consider Requesting a Section 504 Evaluation?

You may want to request a Section 504 evaluation if:

• Your child understands the material but struggles to demonstrate it
• Anxiety, attention, or regulation interferes with learning
• Homework or school attendance is a daily struggle
• Your child needs consistent accommodations to function successfully

Parents do not need to wait for school failure to request support.

How to Request a Section 504 Evaluation (Parent Letter Script)

Parents have the right to request a Section 504 evaluation in writing. Below is a sample script you may copy, paste, and customize.

Sample Section 504 Evaluation Request Letter

Date:

To Whom It May Concern,

I am the parent/guardian of [Child’s Name], who is currently enrolled in [Grade/Classroom] at [School Name]. I am writing to formally request a Section 504 evaluation to determine whether my child qualifies for accommodations under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

My child has experienced ongoing difficulties related to [briefly describe concerns, e.g., attention, anxiety, reading, emotional regulation], which substantially impact their ability to access the general education curriculum without accommodations.

I am requesting that the school initiate the Section 504 evaluation process and provide me with written notice of next steps, timelines, and my procedural rights.

Please confirm receipt of this request in writing. I look forward to collaborating with the school team to ensure my child has equal access to education.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Your Contact Information]

What Happens After You Submit a Request?

After receiving a written request, the school should:

• Conduct an evaluation
• Review relevant records
• Gather parent and teacher input
• Determine whether evaluation data supports eligibility
• Notify parents of eligibility decisions in writing

If a student is found eligible, the team develops a written Section 504 plan.

Parent Rights Under Section 504

Parents have the right to:

• Request evaluations
• Receive notice of meetings and decisions
• Participate meaningfully in planning
• Access educational records
• Challenge decisions they disagree with
• File complaints if rights are violated

When a Section 504 Plan Is Not Enough

If accommodations do not adequately address your child’s needs, a special education evaluation may be appropriate. Some students require specialized instruction, not just accommodations.

In these cases, further evaluation—or an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE)—can help clarify next steps.

How Crescent Psychological Services Helps

Crescent provides: 

• Consultation to determine whether a 504 or IEP evaluation is appropriate
• Comprehensive psychoeducational evaluations
• Independent Educational Evaluations (IEEs)
• Clear, school-ready documentation and recommendations

Our goal is to help families understand their options, protect their rights, and secure meaningful support.

When to Seek Guidance

If you are unsure whether your child qualifies for a Section 504 plan—or feel that a proposed plan does not adequately meet your child’s needs—a consultation can help clarify next steps.

Click here to schedule a free 15-minute consultation.