Empowering Students with IBD: Understanding the 504 Plan

Children with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) can have some unique challenges that may affect their ability to participate in a normal school routine. Prolonged absences due to disease flare-ups or hospitalizations, missed days due to infusions or medical appointments, or requiring multiple restroom trips during one class period are all things that a student with IBD may face. 

A student should never be penalized for having a chronic health condition. Having IBD should never get in the way of your child’s chances of success at school. With proper planning and collaboration with school administration, having a 504 plan can reduce some of the barriers your child may face at school and allow them to thrive academically. 

What is a 504 Plan?

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 states that students with IBD are eligible for accommodations, ensuring they have equal access to education and necessary support. A 504 plan is a customized, written agreement between the school, healthcare provider, the student, and the parents that the school will provide certain accommodations that the child may require due to their IBD needs.

Any school that receives federal funding in the United States, such as a public school, is required to provide a 504 plan for students with medical needs. Since private schools do not utilize government funding, they are not required to offer a 504 plan, however, there are still ways to receive accommodations. They may have their version of an accommodation plan, so reach out to the school administration, nurse, or guidance counselor to inquire about the process for receiving accommodations. Similar written documents that list the rights and needs of students in other countries may exist and are worth exploring. 

The 504 plan will be reviewed annually and will be carried with the student throughout all of their schooling years. It can be changed and updated as their needs fluctuate as they grow. Having a 504 plan in place will help to provide a sense of security so the student can focus on their education and not be concerned about the unpredictable nature of their condition.

Accommodations in the 504 Plan

This plan ensures that those with IBD have the same access to courses and resources as every other student. Even if your student is in remission at the beginning of the school year, having a plan in place that has possible accommodations needed will ensure that they are protected in case of a disease flare-up.

Examples of common 504 plan accommodations include: 

• Unlimited bathroom access without delay 
• Allow students to keep an extra set of clothes in case of an accident -Access to drinks and snacks throughout the day as needed 
• Permission to use a private bathroom, such as the nurse’s bathroom -Access to medications 
• Flexible attendance for medical reasons such as doctor appointments, infusions, or symptoms related to flares 
• Exemption from physical education classes 
• “Stop-the-clock” during testing or extra testing time 
• Additional time to make up missed work 
• An at-home tutor if your child will be absent from school for long periods of time.

Creating a 504 Plan

To request a 504 plan, contact the school administrator or guidance counselor to set up a meeting. Have the meeting before the start of the school year so the plan can be in place from the beginning. 

A written letter from the doctor is often required to confirm the diagnosis. The note should clearly state the disease diagnosis, symptoms, and necessary precautions/accommodations that are unique to your child. The school should have a 504 template, or it can be found online through The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation. Improve Care Now also provides an Accommodation Toolkit that can be useful when creating a 504 Plan.

Tips for Parents:

• Make sure the 504 is reviewed and updated yearly. Request a copy of the plan once it is completed and signed for your records. 
• Make sure it is specific and includes the how/where/when/why accommodations will be implemented. 
• Make sure that all new teachers are aware of the plan at the beginning of the school year 
• Make sure that sports coaches and extracurricular teachers are aware of the plan. 
• Create a plan even if you are in remission so it is in place when it might be needed 
• Include the student in creating the plan, and make sure they are aware of their accommodations.
• If the school tries to remove something from the plan because it is not currently relevant, emphasize that IBD symptoms are unpredictable and may change at any time so it should remain in the plan. 
• Talk to your child and ask them about their school experience, what makes them nervous, and what their worries or concerns may be. 
• You can teach your child a secret hand signal to use to tell their teacher they need to use the bathroom, this can help them avoid disrupting the class or possible embarrassment. 
• Request the plan be reviewed and updated if your child’s medical conditions change mid-way through the year. 
• If your child is in middle school or high school, involve them in the conversation with the teachers. This is a great way to help your child develop self-advocacy skills.

College and University Accommodations for students with Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.

Colleges and Universities are also required to provide accommodations. Proper planning and prep work can help the transition from home to college go smoothly. When visiting schools, ask questions so you are sure to choose a school that can help you thrive. Once you have decided which college to attend, speak to the organizations that can help make you more comfortable. This includes student housing, residence life, food services, and the disability resource center. If possible, meet with them ahead of time so your accommodations are in place when you arrive on campus. Check with the school’s Office of Disability Services for more information. 

The 504 plan is a pivotal step in ensuring your student’s academic success and well-being. By providing tailored accommodations, fostering understanding within school communities, and promoting a supportive learning environment, students with IBD can navigate their educational journey with confidence and resilience.