Section 504 is designed to ensure equal access by which mechanism?

• A. Prohibiting discrimination on the basis of disability
• B. Providing extra funding for schools
• C. Mandating standardized testing
• D. Governing teacher evaluation policies

Answer: (A)

Section 504 protects students with disabilities by prohibiting discrimination on the basis of disability in programs and activities that receive federal funding. This civil rights mechanism ensures equal access to education by requiring schools to provide reasonable accommodations and prevent denying a student benefits, services, or activities because of a disability. It isn’t about extra funding, mandating standardized testing, or setting teacher evaluation policies, but about removing barriers so all students can participate and access education. For example, accommodations like extended time on tests or accessible classroom arrangements would be provided to ensure equal opportunity.