Every student deserves a good learning experience, but the truth is that all students learn differently, everyone has their strengths and their weaknesses and all anyone can do is their very best to overcome their challenges. Sometimes, students need a bit more help overcoming obstacles. 504 plans are a set of accommodations for students that, according to school counselors, Kristi Deedrick and Amy Han, “level out the playing field.” If a student, parent or teacher feels as though a student has something that is preventing them from learning on the same level as their peers, they can receive a 504 plan.
According to Deedrick, the accommodations from 504s can vary between students and diagnoses, but many plans have similar features. 504s can include time and a half for test taking, choice of seating, breaks in class and more. For instance, if a student has severe anxiety that affects their test taking ability, a 504 can help this student become more comfortable by giving them an extended time frame and an opportunity to take the test outside the classroom. When students face issues such as depression or anxiety, OCD, or a learning disability, they can feel frustrated, alone, and helpless; the goal of 504s is to help reduce feelings in a classroom/school environment.
The counselors say that sometimes there is a negative connotation, and a lot of students are unaware of what a 504 even is. Every student deserves to get the best education possible and to feel secure in a classroom. As freshman Adrian says “504s give students the help that they need… and it gives them accommodations so they don’t feel as uncomfortable.” He also says that it’s hard when you have to explain what a 504 is to people, because not everyone understands what it is.
If you feel that you would benefit from a 504 plan, you can reach out to the SSO for more information. You do need some sort of documentation such as a diagnosis. If you feel like a 504 could benefit you and your school experience, please do not be afraid to ask or speak up.
