Which law requires schools to provide reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities?

The correct choice emphasizes that Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 mandates schools to provide reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. This federal law ensures that individuals with disabilities have equal access to educational programs and services. It defines discrimination against individuals with disabilities and outlines the obligation of educational institutions to remove barriers that might hinder a student’s learning experience.

Section 504 covers a wide range of disabilities and includes provisions for academic adjustments, modifications, and auxiliary aids, allowing students with disabilities to participate fully in their education. This law applies not only to public schools but also to any educational setting that receives federal funding.

While the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) specifically addresses the needs of students who require special education services, it does so within a framework of individualized education programs (IEPs) rather than focusing solely on accommodations. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) also mandates accessibility and inclusion for individuals with disabilities, but Section 504 serves as the direct framework for educational settings to address accommodations explicitly. The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) primarily deals with student privacy rights and does not pertain to accommodations for disabilities. Thus, Section 504 stands out as the foundational law requiring reasonable accommodations in educational environments.