Understanding 504 and the SST Process September, 2012

Rehabilitation Act of 1973 Rehabilitation Act of 1973 A person is “qualified disabled” if he/she… A person is “qualified disabled” if he/she… … has a physical/mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities (caring for one’s self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and working) … Has a record of such an impairment, or is regarded as having such an impairment

Who is our JHS 504 Coordinator??? Nyla Fritz

So you have a concern about a student…

Step #1 DO NOT tell the parents you think the student has a disability and needs an IEP or a 504 plan, because we could be charged for testing or doctor bills. DO NOT tell the parents you think the student has a disability and needs an IEP or a 504 plan, because we could be charged for testing or doctor bills. DO communicate with parents your concerns with the student’s work, behavior, etc. DO communicate with parents your concerns with the student’s work, behavior, etc. DO communicate with the student’s JHS Counselor DO communicate with the student’s JHS Counselor DO think about, put to use, & document possible classroom interventions that could help the student (You don’t have to wait for a 504 to do this! As you already know, this is just good teaching.) DO think about, put to use, & document possible classroom interventions that could help the student (You don’t have to wait for a 504 to do this! As you already know, this is just good teaching.)

Step #2 – Now that you’ve talked with the Counselor, he/she will… … do a cumulative file review …get information from other teachers (know that parents, district personnel, lawyers, etc. could see what you write!!) … gather information from outside sources …ask teachers what interventions they have tried WE NEED YOUR TIMELY RESPONSE TO THESE!

Step #3 – The SST Process What is SST? Student Study Team Who is on SST? Counselors, Nyla, Ginger, parents and student What does the SST do? Review information, and decide next step (Evaluate for 504, refer for possible Special Ed. eval.,etc.) SST meets every Tuesday at 7:30am.

Step #4 – If a 504 is written Once a 504 is in place, teachers MUST provide each accommodation (don’t wait until a student asks for the accommodation). WATCH OUT…if the 504 accommodation plans are not followed, YOU could be sued!! Questions?

Reminders 78 total 504 plans Plans are Confidential Distributed shortly after school starts Yearly Reviews every May Teacher feedback forms sent out in April EXTREMELY important that you fill them out completely

Have a great day! The JHS Counselors