Taking a 504 to college

Discussion in 'Off-Topic Discussions' started by Hille, Sep 27, 2014.

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  1. Hille

    Hille Active Member

    Hello, I was asked by a friend about taking a 504 to college after having one in place since age 12. Is there a negative about sharing the info on the initial application. Could there be a larger financial aid package. Thoughts appreciated. Hille
     
  2. Randell1234

    Randell1234 Moderator

    I have no idea what you are talking about. Is this what you mean by a 504? - The 504 Plan is a plan developed to ensure that a child who has a disability identified under the law and is attending an elementary or secondary educational institution receives accommodations that will ensure their academic success and access to the learning environment.
     
  3. mattbrent

    mattbrent Well-Known Member

    Yes, if a student has a documented disability, they can mention that and get services from the school. They cannot be rejected on the basis of a disability, as that would be blatant discrimination. I have several students who receive accomodations in my courses. Many of these are test related, such as having extended time to take a test. Others might be something like having another student take notes or being able to record my lectures.

    -Matt
     
  4. cookderosa

    cookderosa Resident Chef

    I've had dozens of students through the years who have self-identified, and as with Matt's experience, it usually translates into extended test time, note taking, etc. I have no idea how or if a learning disability has anything to do with aid packages, interesting question. Maybe scholarship opportunities would exist for an LD student specifically, but as for Pell Grants and student loans? How could there be any legal distinction between the two? The purpose of accommodations is to LEVEL the playing field, not to provide an advantage.
    I will say this, if the student doesn't self-identify at the START of the class, the instructor isn't going to make accommodations after the fact (eg. if the student fails an exam, he can't then say "oh by the way...." and get retro-accommodations).
    If this kid needs accommodations, he should ask for them.
     
  5. mattbrent

    mattbrent Well-Known Member

    We are not permitted to go back and give accommodations after the fact. There was some legal explanation for this, but I honestly don't recall the specifics. Bottom line is, as Jennifer said, they should get them at the start of class. Syllabi usually have some stipulation in there about asking for accommodations.

    -Matt
     
  6. cookderosa

    cookderosa Resident Chef

    We have always had a 2 week cut off, but that might be a school thing.
     

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