FILE:  JAB

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY - SECTION 504

SECTION 504 OF THE REHABILITATION ACT OF 1973

Section 504 prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in any program receiving federal financial assistance.  "Individuals with a disability" are defined as individuals who (1) have a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more of such person's major life activities (major life activities include activities such as  caring for one's self, performing manual tasks, walking, seeing, hearing, speaking, breathing, learning and working), (2) individuals with a record of such an impairment, or (3) individuals regarded as having such an impairment.

In order to fulfill its obligation under Section 504, the Catahoula Parish School Board recognizes its responsibility to avoid discrimination in policies and practices regarding its personnel and students.  No discrimination against any person with disabilities will knowingly be permitted in any of the programs and practices in the school system.

The school district has specific responsibilities under the Act, which include the responsibility to identify, evaluate, and if the child is determined to be eligible under Section 504, to afford access to appropriate educational services.

If the parent or guardian disagrees with the determination made by professional staff of the school district, he/she has a right to a hearing with an impartial hearing officer.

Questions or complaints should be directed to the 504 Coordinator for Catahoula Parish schools.

Ref:     29 USC 701 et seq. (Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 - Vocational Rehabilitation  Services)

            42 USC 12101 et seq. (Authorization of Appropriations)

Catahoula Parish School Board