bipolar 504 plan
Deficit / hyperactivity disorder attention can be frustrating for children and their families. Families try drugs, natural supplements, modification behavioral, and other tactics to try to help their children. It can be a challenge in school and, with a national average of 3 children in each classroom with ADHD. But did school you have to provide accommodation for your child?
The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, ensures that all persons with disabilities are not discriminated against. This means that any student with disabilities should be included in any program funded by the federal government. If your child has ADHD he or she can qualify for a 504 accommodation plan. What are the guidelines?
Not all children with ADHD need a 504 plan, but if a student's disability is affecting their ability to learn or socialize in school, then a 504 plan may be in order. If a student is inattentive ADHD, unable to concentrate for long time, or have trouble staying in his seat, plan a classroom can be beneficial.
It is best to start with your child's teacher to determine whether it is justified 504 plan. Schools in general, form teams to study the needs of individual students and the school can decide how to best address those needs.
If a 504 plan is decided, the team, along with the parent, decide on appropriate accommodations for the classroom. For a child with ADHD who are typically include sitting on the front of the room, or away from the distractions, the additional time to complete work or task; frequent breaks or movement, or a quiet place to calm himself.
The rooms will be oriented to the needs of your child. Schools are only required to provide accommodations that are considered reasonable and therefore may vary from one site to another.
Note that a 504 plan is not an excuse for a child to school, but this is to ensure that equal access to learning.
In educational settings, you can also hear the term IEP or Individualized Education Plan. This is different from a 504 plan with respect to students with difficulties learning. These students qualify for special education under IDEA, people with disabilities Education Act. One way to remember the difference is that an IEP provides relief and of a regular classroom, while a 504 plan ensures that students are included in the regular classroom.
For more information or to obtain information you can use at a future meeting 504, click the link below.
 © 2008 Victoria McGee
Victoria McGee, M.A., is a guidance counselor, and has published two self-esteem curricula for middle school boys and girls. She is also a “Chicken Soup” author and the author of “Section 504: A Simple Guide for Parents.” Victoria speaks on self-esteem and empowerment, especially as it pertains to women and girls.
