School Counselors’ Roles, Beliefs and Practices Related to Section 504

Results of a National Survey

Abstract

School counselors are responsible for providing services to all students, including those eligible under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, through a comprehensive school counseling model. This study using survey methodology examines the roles, practices and beliefs of school counselors in relation to Section 504, focusing on differences based on Title I status and geographic setting. A national survey of school counselors (N = 609) revealed that 90% serve as case managers for Section 504 plans, with only 17.9% working solely in a consultation and collaboration role in eligibility determinations. Additionally, 31% reported involvement in Section 504 disputes (due process, Office of Civil Rights (OCR) investigations, district grievances). The majority of counselors (73.1%) agreed that managing 504 plans creates a dual role, while 59.8% reported that this responsibility limits their ability to implement a comprehensive counseling program. Inferential analysis showed significant differences in beliefs about equitable access to 504 eligibility, with counselors in Title I schools more likely to report equitable access. Implications of practice and future research directions are discussed within.