What is a 504 Plan?
Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 is a federal law designed to protect individuals with disabilities from discrimination. Under Section 504, a “disability” includes anyone with a physical or mental impairment that limits one or more major life activities (like breathing or eating). This means that students with food allergies, especially those at risk for anaphylaxis, are eligible for legal protections.
What Does a 504 Plan Do?
A 504 Plan is a legally binding document that outlines (customized) accommodations a school must make to ensure the safety and equal participation of a child with a disability. For students with food allergies, a 504 Plan might include:
Allergen-free classrooms or seating arrangements
Allergy-safe meal options in the cafeteria
Permission for the child to carry their own medication if they’re old (or mature) enough
Staff training on recognizing and responding to allergic reactions
504 Plan vs. IEP: What’s the Difference?
While a 504 Plan provides accommodations to support equal access to learning, the document does not alter educational curriculum. An IEP (Individualized Education Program), however, is designed for students who require special education services due to a learning disability or other developmental need that impacts learning.
504 Plan: Focuses on accessibility and accommodations, not curriculum changes. Ideal for students who need support managing a disability (like a food allergy) but do not need modified educational instruction.
IEP: Provides individualized education goals and services for students who need modifications to the general curriculum. A food allergy alone usually doesn’t qualify for an IEP unless there are additional learning needs.
How to Request a 504 Plan for Your Child
If you think your child could benefit from a 504 Plan to stay safe and supported at school, follow these steps:
Email your School’s 504 Coordinator – This person is often listed on the school website, or you can call the main office to find out.
Request a 504 Meeting – In your email, explain that your child has a food allergy and needs accommodations to ensure their safety and equal participation in school activities.
Provide Documentation – Bring allergy documentation from your child’s doctor or allergist to confirm the medical need for accommodations.
Attend the Determination Meeting – At the meeting, you will collaborate with school staff (such as the school nurse, teacher, and administrator) to discuss your child’s needs and create a plan, if they qualify.
Review and Finalize the 504 Plan – Once the school team determines eligibility, the 504 Plan will be drafted and finalized.
Final Thoughts
A 504 Plan can give parents peace of mind by ensuring that the school understands and respects your child’s needs. With a custom 504 Plan in place, you can be more confident that your child will be safe, supported, and able to participate fully in their school experience.
Additional Resources
Click here for an additional resource about the 504 Plan, eligibility, and the process of acquiring an educational plan.
References:
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Your Rights Under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. Available at: https://www.hhs.gov/sites/default/files/ocr/civilrights/resources/factsheets/504.pdf. Accessed November 8, 2024.
U.S. Department of Education. Protecting Students with Disabilities: Frequently Asked Questions about Section 504 and the Education of Children with Disabilities. Available at: https://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/504faq.html. Accessed November 8, 2024.
Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE). Managing Food Allergies at School: 504 Plans. Available at: https://www.foodallergy.org/resources/managing-food-allergies-school-504-plans. Accessed November 8, 2024.
National Center for Learning Disabilities. The Difference Between IEPs and 504 Plans. Available at: https://www.ncld.org/what-we-do/getting-started/the-difference-between-ieps-and-504-plans/. Accessed November 8, 2024.
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