IDEA and Section 504: A Comparison of "Student Populations"

IDEA/504 STUDENTS

Students are qualified under one or more of thirteen (13) IDEA disabling conditions. Specially designed individual education programs are planned for each student by IEP Teams

Graphic showing the populations of 504, IDEA and Regular Students

SECTION 504 STUDENTS ONLY

Due to substantial mental or physical impairments that limit one or more of the students, major life activities, special accommodations to the student's program are required. A 504 accommodation plan is designed for each student according to individual need.

Examples of potential 504 handicapping conditions not typically covered under IDEA are:

communicable diseases
HIV, Tuberculosis
medical conditions
asthma, allergies, diabetes, heart disease
temporary medical conditions due to illness or accident
Attention Deficit Disorder
behavioral difficulties
drug/alcohol addiction
other conditions

With permission - National Information Center for children and youth with Disabilities