The Cochlear Implant School Toolkit

3 - Working as Part of a Team

Section 504 plans

Some children with cochlear implants are considered ineligible for an IEP. Many of these children are alternatively eligible for protection under a different federal law, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 acts as an anti-discrimination law. It prevents discrimination based on disability and ensures that a student with a disability receives equal access to education.

• Under this law, a disability includes a "physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities," such as walking, seeing, or hearing.