Services for Protected Handicapped Students

A student who does not qualify for special education services under IDEA still may qualify for services under Section 504 (a civil rights law) if the disability is shown to substantially limit his/her educational performance. 

These related services or accommodations are provided without discrimination or cost to the student or family. To qualify as a protected handicapped student, the child must be of school age with a physical or mental disability that substantially limits or prohibits participation in or access to an aspect of the school program. Services and safeguards for protected handicapped students are distinct from those applicable to exceptional students enrolled or seeking enrollment in special education programs. Protected handicapped students fall under Pennsylvania Chapter 15, Title 22, Regulations of the State Board of Education (Section 504, 1973 Rehabilitation Act). In contrast, students with disabilities who qualify for special education services are covered by the regulations contained in Chapter 14.