Red Flags: When to Speak Up If a 504 Plan Isn’t Being Followed

A 504 Accommodation Plan is a legally binding document that schools must follow to ensure students with disabilities receive the support they need. But what happens when your child’s accommodations aren’t being provided?

If your child’s 504 Accommodation Plan isn’t being followed, it’s time to take action! Here’s how to recognize some signs and advocate effectively.

Warning Signs That the School Is Ignoring the 504 Accommodation Plan:

Accommodations are provided inconsistently or not at all.
Your child isn’t getting their extended time, breaks, preferential seating, or other necessary supports indicated on their plan.

Teachers or staff say they “forgot” or act unaware of the plan.

Did every staff member receive a copy of the plan? Who is monitoring the accommodations being provided? Ask your child if they are old enough to see if the accommodations are being provided. Every teacher and staff member working with your child should know and follow the plan as written.

Your child is struggling despite having a 504 Accommodation Plan.

Are the written accommodations what your child currently needs? Does the accommodation plan need to be revised? Does your child need more than what is provided on the accommodation plan? If your child is falling behind or their symptoms are worsening, something isn’t working, and it’s time to get in touch with the school.

The school is unresponsive or dismissive when you ask about accommodations.
If you’re constantly chasing answers, it’s a red flag. If you are not being heard, speak with the school administration. If the school administration isn’t responsive, move up the chain of command and speak with your school district office.

There’s no clear system to track whether accommodations are being implemented.
Schools should monitor that accommodations are being provided. Each principal should have someone designated at the school in charge of Section 504. If you are not able to get any answers, there should be someone in charge of Section 504 at the district school office.

Meetings are delayed or avoided.
Schools should meet with you at least once a year to review the plan, but you can request a meeting at any time if issues arise.

What to Do if Your Child’s 504 Plan Isn’t Being Followed

Keep Detailed Records
Log specific instances, time, day, who was supposed to provide the accommodation, and what accommodation was not provided. Save all emails, teacher communications, and school communication.

Communicate in Writing
Send a polite but firm email outlining the issue and requesting clarification.
Example: "I’ve noticed that [your child’s name] is not receiving their [accommodation] as stated on their 504 Plan. Can you provide an update on how we can ensure consistency moving forward?"

Request a 504 Meeting
If issues persist, request a meeting to review and revise the plan.
Bring your documentation and be ready to discuss specific concerns.

Involve the School’s 504 Coordinator
If the teacher isn’t resolving the issue bring to the school’s 504 designee. If that doesn’t help bring it to the attention of the principal. If there still isn’t a resolution escalate it to the district’s 504 coordinator.

File a Formal Complaint If Necessary
As a last resort If the school continues to violate the plan and you do not get any assistance from the district’s 504 coordinator, you can file a Section 504 complaint with the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR). This is a lengthy process.

Advocacy Tip for Parents:

The more specific and professional your communication, the harder it is for the school to dismiss your concerns.

Example Email:
"Dear [Teacher/Administrator], I appreciate all the support you provide to  [your child’s name]. However, I’ve noticed that [specific accommodation] has not been consistently provided, which is impacting my child’s ability to succeed in school. I’d love to set up a time to discuss how we can ensure this support is consistently implemented. Please let me know your availability. Thank you for your time!"

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