Published June 5, 2026 | Version v1
Journal Open

"Whose Job is This?" Using the STEPS Model to Explore 504 Role Ambiguity

Authors/Creators

  • 1. EDMO icon University of Wyoming
  • 2. The University of Tennessee Chattanooga
  • 3. Indiana University Bloomington

Description

The American School Counselor Association’s position statement regarding school counselors’ roles in Section 504 encourages school counselors to avoid serving as Section 504 coordinators. Still, school counselors are frequently asked to serve in this role, despite ASCA’s position or their minimal training specific to Section 504. Yet, school counselors are also uniquely equipped to support student development, improved outcomes, and collaboration amongst school and family stakeholders. Through a synthesis of prior research along with current ethical codes and policies within the school counseling profession, this manuscript examines the ethical and practical tensions created by 504-role ambiguity.  It offers examples and specific steps demonstrating how school counselors can navigate the dual assignment of Section 504 coordinator and school counselor using an ethical decision-making model. The authors provide recommendations for future practice and policy. 

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References

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