504 Plan
A 504 Plan is a formal education support plan that helps students with disabilities succeed in school. It's named after Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which protects students from discrimination. Unlike special education plans (IEPs), 504 Plans are for students who can participate in regular classroom settings but need specific accommodations. Think of it as a set of instructions that helps teachers and school staff understand how to best support a student with physical or mental challenges. When you see this on a resume, it means the educator has experience creating, implementing, or managing these support plans.
Examples in Resumes
Developed and implemented 504 Plan accommodations for 15+ students annually
Collaborated with parents and specialists to create effective 504 Plans for students with diverse needs
Served as 504 Plan coordinator, managing documentation and ensuring compliance
Typical job title: "504 Plan Coordinators"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find 504 Plan Coordinators
Professional Organizations
Online Resources
Job Boards
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you handle a situation where a teacher is resistant to implementing 504 Plan accommodations?
Expected Answer: The candidate should discuss professional development approaches, ways to build teacher buy-in, documentation strategies, and how to maintain positive working relationships while ensuring student needs are met.
Q: What systems have you put in place to ensure school-wide 504 Plan compliance?
Expected Answer: Look for answers about creating tracking systems, regular review schedules, staff training programs, and communication protocols between teachers, parents, and administrators.
Mid Level Questions
Q: How do you determine if a student needs a 504 Plan versus an IEP?
Expected Answer: Should explain the difference between 504 Plans and IEPs in simple terms, and describe the evaluation process for determining appropriate support plans.
Q: Describe your process for reviewing and updating 504 Plans.
Expected Answer: Should discuss regular review schedules, involving parents and teachers, gathering current data, and adjusting accommodations based on student progress.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are common accommodations included in 504 Plans?
Expected Answer: Should be able to list basic accommodations like extended time on tests, preferential seating, modified assignments, or use of assistive technology.
Q: How do you document 504 Plan implementation in your classroom?
Expected Answer: Should discuss keeping records of provided accommodations, student progress, and communication with parents and other teachers.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic understanding of 504 Plan requirements
- Implementation of common accommodations
- Documentation of student progress
- Communication with parents and staff
Mid (2-5 years)
- Development of comprehensive 504 Plans
- Coordination with multiple stakeholders
- Assessment of accommodation effectiveness
- Knowledge of compliance requirements
Senior (5+ years)
- Program oversight and compliance management
- Staff training and development
- Policy development and implementation
- Complex case management
Red Flags to Watch For
- Lack of knowledge about legal requirements and compliance
- Poor documentation practices
- Limited experience with parent communication
- Unfamiliarity with accommodation types
- No experience with student assessment or progress monitoring
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