School Accommodations to Support Students with Eating Disorders
Here's a list of helpful accommodations to consider asking for, whether you're working with a 504 Plan, an IEP, or informal supports through a school counselor or administrator.
Meal-Related Support
Flexible scheduling for meals/snacks (especially during breaks or lunchtime)
Access to a private or supervised space for eating (to reduce anxiety or social pressure)
Permission for a parent, nurse, or support staff to supervise meals if needed
Use of a “snack pass” or signal to excuse student for a scheduled eating time
Academic & Cognitive Support
Extended time on tests or assignments (brain fog and malnourishment impact concentration)
Reduced homework load during treatment phases
Modified attendance expectations (especially during outpatient treatment, therapy, or refeeding)
Alternative ways to demonstrate learning (e.g., verbal presentation instead of written paper)
Mental Health & Emotional Regulation
Access to the school counselor or social worker during the day
Breaks for emotional regulation, mindfulness, or grounding exercises
Pass to leave class briefly without penalty if overwhelmed
Option to arrive late or leave early for medical or therapy appointments
Physical Education & Health Class
Exemption from or modification of physical education requirements
Alternative activities that don’t emphasize weight, calories, or body image
Opt-out from weighing or body composition assessments in health class
Excuse from food- or diet-focused lessons (e.g., “MyPlate,” food logging activities)
Social & Environmental Accommodations
Safe person or “go-to” staff for check-ins or grounding support
Support during transitions back to school after treatment
Collaboration with teachers to avoid unintentional triggering comments
Privacy protections—sharing information only with need-to-know staff
How to Ask for Accommodations
Start with a medical note or letter from your treatment provider explaining the diagnosis and impact on learning (you can request one be general to protect privacy).
Work with the school counselor, nurse, or 504 coordinator to request a meeting.
Be specific about what helps and why—you don’t have to disclose every detail.
Know your rights: Eating disorders qualify for support under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act in most cases.
Final Tip
Recovery is hard work—and school shouldn’t make it harder. The right accommodations can create space for healing and learning to happen together, without shame or added stress.
