CTA and its IDEA Task Force have produced a guide to understanding and working with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
A one-paragraph provision, Section 504, prohibits discrimination against students with disabilities in any program receiving federal funds.
Often mistaken for a special education issue, Section 504 has an everyday impact on classroom teachers delivering general education. It requires the provision of a free appropriate public education, including individually designed programs, for eligible students. It does not mean the student has to receive special education services.
"QuickGuide: The General Educator & Section 504 Issues" is available for download from the CTA website.
It was developed by CTA Instruction and Professional Development as part of its growing "QuickGuide" library of online publications.
The publication contains best practice strategies, answers to frequently asked questions and links to additional resources. It also includes a section with sample contract language for bargaining issues that develop around Section 504.