If your child has a disability that affects their ability to learn in a general education setting but does not qualify for an Individualized Education Program (IEP), a Section 504 Plan may be the right solution. This federal civil rights law ensures students with disabilities have equal access to education. In Maryland, requesting a 504 Plan involves clear steps, timelines, and defined roles for parents and school staff.
What Is a 504 Plan?
A Section 504 Plan outlines accommodations and modifications to help students with disabilities participate fully in school activities. Unlike an IEP, a 504 Plan does not provide specialized instruction but focuses on removing barriers to learning. Examples of accommodations include:
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Extended test time
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Preferential seating
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Assistive technology
(Source: mdod.maryland.gov)
When Can You Request a 504 Plan?
Parents can request a 504 Plan at any time if their child has a disability that substantially limits one or more major life activities, such as learning, walking, or concentrating. Common reasons include:
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Medical Conditions: Diabetes, epilepsy, or chronic illnesses
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Mental Health Conditions: Anxiety, depression, ADHD
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Physical Disabilities: Mobility impairments, hearing or vision loss
Step-by-Step Guide to Requesting a 504 Plan in Maryland
1. Initiate the Request
Contact your child’s school to request a 504 evaluation. You can do this by:
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Email or Written Letter: Send a formal request to the principal or designated 504 coordinator.
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Phone Call: Follow up to confirm receipt of your request.
Sample Email Template:
Subject: Request for Section 504 Evaluation for [Child’s Name]
Dear [Principal’s Name],
I am requesting a Section 504 evaluation for my child, [Child’s Name], currently in [Grade/Class]. I believe [he/she/they] may benefit from accommodations due to [briefly describe the disability or condition].
Please let me know the next steps in initiating this process.
Thank you,
[Your Name]
2. Consent for Evaluation
Once the school receives your request, they must obtain your written consent to conduct the evaluation. Maryland schools are required to provide this consent form within 15 school days of your request.
3. Evaluation Process
After consent is given, the school has 45 school days to complete the evaluation. The process may
include:
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Reviewing medical or psychological reports
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Observing your child in the classroom
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Gathering input from teachers and school staff
4. 504 Team Meeting
Within 30 calendar days after the evaluation determines eligibility, the school must hold a 504 Team meeting. Team members typically include:
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Parent/guardian
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School principal or 504 coordinator
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General education teachers
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Special education staff (if applicable)
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Other relevant professionals
During this meeting, the team will discuss evaluation results and decide on appropriate accommodations.
5. Developing the 504 Plan
If your child qualifies, the team will create a 504 Plan outlining specific accommodations to support your child’s learning. The plan should be implemented immediately after the meeting.
6. Implementation and Monitoring
The school is responsible for ensuring accommodations are applied consistently. Regular monitoring ensures the plan is effective and can be adjusted as needed.
Key Timelines in Maryland
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Consent for Evaluation: Within 15 school days of request
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Evaluation Completion: Within 45 school days of consent
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504 Team Meeting: Within 30 calendar days after eligibility determination
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Plan Implementation: Immediately after the 504 Team meeting
Your Rights as a Parent
As a Maryland parent, you have the right to:
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Participate in all 504 Team meetings
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Request a 504 Plan at any time
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Review and approve accommodations in the plan
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Request changes if the plan does not meet your child’s needs
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File a grievance if you disagree with the school’s decisions
Conclusion
Requesting a 504 Plan in Maryland involves a structured process with clear steps and timelines. By understanding your rights and the procedures, you can advocate effectively for your child’s educational needs. Parents are essential members of the 504 Team, and your input ensures your child receives the support they deserve.
For additional assistance, contact your local school district’s special education office or a legal professional specializing in education law.
Reach Out for Counseling or Consulting Services at Crystal Waters Counseling Centers,
If you want to get additional support Crystal Waters Counseling Centers can help. Our therapists are here to help you. We can help them learn valuable skills that will help them cope in healthy ways throughout their life. Follow these steps to get started.
- Reach out for a free consultation at our therapy practice
- Schedule your first appointment for therapy
- Then, learn how to navigate symptoms of anxiety, work through stressors and improve your overall quality of life
Other Therapy Services We Offer in Maryland & the Washington DC Area
At Crystal Waters Counseling Centers we offer a variety of in-person and online therapy services. Specifically, they are available for children, teens, college students, women, and adults throughout Maryland. In addition, this includes counseling for both anxiety and depression as well as EMDR Therapy, therapy for life transitions, and parent coaching.
Written by Diane Brumfield, M.Ed, LCPC-S, NCC – Clinical Director of Crystal Waters Counseling Centers, where she specializes in anxiety counseling, stress management, and trauma-informed somatic therapy.
