To become eligible for services and protection against discrimination on the basis of disability under Section 504, a student must be determined, as a result of an evaluation, to be substantially limited in one or more major life activities. Major life activities are defined as “functions such as caring for one’s self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning, and working.” 

 

School staff might consider the following scenarios when trying to determine the possibility of a disability and possible Section 504 Plan:

·         When a student returns to school after a serious illness or injury.

·         When a student shows a pattern of not benefiting from the instruction being provided.

·         When a student exhibits signs of a chronic health condition.

·         When substance abuse is an issue.

·         When a student is referred for an evaluation, but it is determined not necessary to perform an evaluation under the IDEA.

·         When a student is evaluated by the district and is found not to qualify to receive special education services under the IDEA.

·         When a disability of any kind is suspected.

 

To determine if there is a legitimate basis to suspect the student has a disability, information must be provided and collected from the student, parents and teachers.