Section 504 is a federal statute that prohibits discrimination based upon a disability. Section 504 covers eligible students for accommodations that enable them to work or learn. A school team knowledgeable of the student determines, with evaluation data, if the student meets eligibility criteria.

Decorah Community School District does not discriminate in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its programs and activities. Section 504 of the 1973 Rehabilitation Act is a non-discrimination statute barring discrimination on the basis of disability. It is the policy of the district not to discriminate on the basis of disability in its educational programs, activities, or employment policies as required by the Act. The 1973 Rehabilitation Act requires the district to locate, evaluate, and determine if the student is a qualified individual requiring accommodation necessary to provide access to educational programs.

Parents are entitled to have the opportunity to review relevant educational records under the Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). Parents/guardians disagreeing with the decisions reached by district personnel regarding necessary accommodations for access to the educational program may request a hearing before an impartial hearing officer by notifying the districts’ ADA/Section 504 Coordinator. The parent/guardian is entitled to participate in the hearing and to be represented by counsel.

504 Parent Guide Brochure

Keystone AEA 1 Section 504 website

District ADA/Section 504 Coordinators

Shanna Putnam-Dibble, 504 Coordinator (EC-4)

Jake Nimrod, Decorah Middle School Assistant Principal (5-8)

Andy Carlson, Decorah High School 504 Coordinator (9-12)