| This report describes a problem based learning project focusing on Section 504 Compliance in the State of Missouri. Additionally it provides information about Superintendent's perceptions and levels of knowledge about Section 504 compliance in their districts. The project team sought to learn and understand the historical timeline of legislation and critical court cases leading up to the reauthorization of the Individual with Disabilities act of 2008.;The reauthorization of the Individuals with Disability Act of 2008 meant school districts had greater responsibilities to students to ensure their educational needs were being successfully met. Section 504 addressed the successful implementation of a Free and Appropriate Public Education for all children, no matter the disability. Due to vague language, limited training and sparse resources, many school districts are still not Section 504 compliant. This lack of compliance puts districts at risk of litigation as well as limiting the potential success of students with disabilities. The team project identified four specific constructs through literature investigation: District Demographics, Compliance, Best Practices, and Office of Civil Rights Compliance (OCR) and Professional development. In efforts to compile the necessary information for the project team surveyed 94 different Missouri school districts in the areas of knowledge, compliance practices currently in place, number of OCR complaints, and professional development opportunities.;The results of the survey suggest due to the vague language of IDEA in regard to Section 504, many superintendents and special education directions have limited bases of knowledge thus causing many school districts within the State of Missouri to be in danger of OCR complaints. Three specific recommendations were made to Boards of Education, Superintendents, and Building Leadership Teams. Recommendations included training programs for all districts administration, acquisition of a knowledgeable Section 504 coordinator; and the need for school district leaders to ensure that all policies are in compliance with Section 504. |
