Discipline for Students with Disabilities

Abstract

School administrators are given authority to discipline students. Each school district has a Code of Conduct that informs students of school rules and discipline procedures. The Individual with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA 2004), Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, and South Carolina law tell the school administrators what steps must be taken when disciplining a student with a disability. If a student has an Individual Education Program (IEP) or a 504 plan, then there are special procedures that the school district must follow. A student with a 504 plan has similar protections as a student with an IEP, but there are differences.