How does Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act differ from IDEA?

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) serve critical, but distinct roles in supporting individuals with disabilities. The correct choice highlights that Section 504 is aimed at protecting the rights of individuals with disabilities in general education environments. This includes students who may not qualify for special education under IDEA but still require accommodations to access the general education curriculum effectively.

Section 504 has a broader scope, encompassing individuals who have physical or mental impairments that substantially limit one or more major life activities. It mandates that schools provide necessary accommodations to ensure that these students can participate fully. In contrast, IDEA specifically provides special education services to eligible children with disabilities, focusing on creating an individualized education program (IEP) tailored to their unique educational needs.

This distinction underscores the different contexts in which these laws apply: while IDEA centers around specialized educational programs and supports, Section 504 ensures access and equal treatment within general educational settings. Understanding this difference is essential for educators and specialists collaborating to meet the needs of all students effectively.