What is meant by the phrase "substantial limitation"?

Generally, it means that the disability materially and significantly impacts the student's overall educational performance and experience in an adverse manner. In other words, it means the student is experiencing serious difficulty meeting minimum academic requirements, behavioral expectations, or a combination of both. It does not mean that the student is not working up to his/her potential or earning the best grades he/she can earn.

Can a student be disabled but not qualify under Section 504?

Yes, since some disabled students may not be substantially limited in learning or another major life activity by their disability. If a student with disabilities is able to function adequately in the school setting, they may not be substantially limited, and thus, not eligible under Section 504.

Above information by
Jose L. Martín, Attorney at Law
Richards Lindsay & Martín, L.L.P.

Leticia Carrasco
Senior Coordinator

Dyslexia, Section 504, RtI Department
406 Barrera Street
San Antonio, Texas 78210
(210) 354-3983

San Antonio Independent School District does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, sex, or disability in providing education services, activities, and programs, including vocational programs, in accordance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended; Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972; Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as amended.

Es norma del Distrito Escolar Independiente de San Antonio de no discriminar por motivos de raza, religion, color, origen nacional, sexo o impedimento, en sus programas, servicios o actividades vocacionales, tal como lo require el Título VI de la Ley de Derechos Civiles de 1964, según enmienda; el Titulo IX de las Enmiendas en la Educación, de 1972, y la Sección 504 de la Ley de Rehabilitación de 1973, según enmienda.