What principles are outlined in Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act?

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act specifically prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in any program or activity that receives federal financial assistance, which notably includes educational institutions. This law ensures that students with disabilities have equal access to educational opportunities, and it mandates that reasonable accommodations be made to support their learning and participation in school activities.

The emphasis is on preventing exclusion from participation in programs and activities due to a disability. This principle directly protects the rights of students with disabilities, ensuring they receive the necessary support to succeed in an educational environment. The law thus creates an inclusive framework that requires schools to provide necessary modifications without discrimination based on disability.

This focus on educational equity distinguishes it from broader concepts such as prohibiting discrimination in all public spaces or establishing systems of support for all students, which may not specifically address the rights and accommodations needed for students with disabilities in federally funded programs.