Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act is a federal civil rights law that protects individuals with disabilities from discrimination in programs and activities receiving federal funding, including public schools. Under this law, D303 provides a free and appropriate public education to eligible students by developing 504 plans that include individualized accommodations and supports. These plans ensure students with disabilities can access their education and participate in school activities on an equal basis with their non-disabled peers. Students served under Section 504 plans remain in general education and receive their accommodations within that setting.

Students currently enrolled in D303 schools may be referred for a Section 504 evaluation by their parents or school personnel. To initiate a referral, parents or school staff should submit a written request to the building principal that identifies the student's suspected disability and specific areas of educational concern. Upon receiving the referral, a team of individuals knowledgeable about the student, the suspected disability, and Section 504 requirements will review the request to determine whether an evaluation is warranted, and if the student may be eligible for a 504 plan. To qualify for a Section 504 plan, a student must have an identified mental or physical impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities.