Accommodations

When a child has a physical or mental health diagnosis which is significantly impacting their ability to perform daily tasks in school, they may benefit from accommodations.

Called Section 504 Accommodations, Section 504 of The Rehabilitation Act of 1973, requires public schools to offer accommodations for eligible students with disabilities. These accommodations help students with special health needs to participate in New York City Department of Education (DOE) programs and activities on an equal basis with their peers who do not have disabilities.

Accommodations could be changes to the learning environment or academic structures which reduce the obstacles students face. Accommodations are based on demonstrated need related to the diagnosis. Some examples of physical or mental impairments are physical disabilities, health conditions, mental disorders, and learning disabilities.

Students qualify for 504 Accommodations if:

They have a physical or mental impairment; and
The impairment substantially limits at least one major life activity.

To request 504 Accommodations, families must submit two forms:

1. Request for Health Services/Section 504 Accommodations Parent Form with HIPAA Authorization (School Year 2025-2026)

2. Medical Accommodations Request Form with Addendum School Year 2025-26

Once the completed forms are submitted to your child’s Guidance Counselor, each student’s case is reviewed individually to determine eligibility. The process takes approximately 30 school days.

For information on requesting 504 Accommodations, please visit the NYC Public Schools website.