ADA Section 504

Section 504 Informational Document

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (commonly referred to as “Section 504") is a federal law which prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities. The law provides: No otherwise qualified individual with a disability. . . shall, solely by reason of her or his disability, be excluded from the participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance. . . . 29 USC § 794

One of the principal purposes of Section 504 is to ensure that students with disabilities are not denied access to educational facilities, programs, and opportunities on the basis of their disability.

The Avon Lake City Schools expects its employees to be knowledgeable about Section 504 procedures. If you have Section 504 questions concerning either current or prospective students, please contact the District's Section 504 Coordinator:

David Schindler

Director of Pupil Services

Special Education

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the law that outlines rights and regulations for students with disabilities who require Special Education, or specially designed instruction. It was passed in 1975 and ensures that all children with disabilities receive a free, appropriate, public education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). Infants and toddlers with disabilities (birth-2) and their families receive early intervention services under IDEA Part C. Children and youth (ages 3-21) receive special education and related services under IDEA Part B.

This Act was reauthorized in 1997, placing stronger emphasis on access to the general education curriculum for students with disabilities. It was again reauthorized in 2004, more closely aligning it with No Child Left Behind.

The Avon Lake City Schools work closely with families, agencies, and staff to determine appropriate services and supports for all students with disabilities. Students can be referred for assessment by parents, teachers, or other individual who has first-hand knowledge of the student’s educational progress. A student is eligible for special education services by qualification in one of the disability categories defined by IDEA. A plan, called an Individual Education Plan (IEP) is developed by the team to clearly identify goals, services, accommodations, modifications, and other supports.