Do You Know the Difference Between an IEP and a 504 Plan?
Did you know that there are different educational plans that your child’s public school can develop to support their academic needs if they meet specified eligibility criteria? These plans provide protection, access, and achievement opportunities for your child, but how do you know which one is the most appropriate plan to meet their needs?
What is a 504 Plan?
A 504 plan is covered by Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
Under the Civil Rights law, students have the right to a free appropriate public education (FAPE).
In general, a 504 plan is intended to give students access to the same education that their peers are receiving.
Section 504 protects individuals with visible disabilities AND those with disabilities that may not be apparent.
A 504 is a formal plan that schools develop to give kids with disabilities the support they need.
504 plans prevent discrimination and protects the rights of kids with disabilities in school.
“A 504 plan is a blueprint for how the school will provide supports and remove barriers for a student with a disability. It’s purpose it to give equal access to the general education curriculum.” – Understood.org
What is an IEP?
The IEP (Individualized Education Program or Individualized Education Plan) was created through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).
The IEP is a document under United States law that is developed for each public school student in the U.S. who needs special education.
An IEP is designed to help students achieve their educational goals more easily than they would have.
An Individualized Education Plan is a legal document that defines how a student’s school plans to meet the child’s unique, personalized educational needs that are the result of their disability.
The two main goals of an IEP are to set measurable goals for the student and to specify the services that the school will provide for the student.
“The IEP describes how the student learns, how the student best demonstrates that learning and what teachers and service providers will do to help the student learn more effectively.” – Wikipedia
It is important to note that a child’s medical diagnosis does not automatically qualify him/her for an Individualized Education Plan. The child’s medical diagnosis must “adversely affect educational performance.” However, this does not mean the student must be failing in school to receive special education and related services.
What is the difference between a 504 plan and an IEP?
Both the 504 plan and an IEP can offer formal help for students who are struggling within the school system. A 504 plan is less restrictive than an IEP. Determining the best plan depends specifically on the needs of the students.
For side-by-side comparisons of the differences, benefits and technicalities of a 504 plan and an Individualized Education Plan, click here and here.
In the weeks to come, specific details will be shared as it pertains to the 504 plan and an IEP. Should you have any questions about the differences between the 504 Plan and an Individualized Education Plan, please contact us here.
If at any time, you believe that your child needs representation within the school system for their special education needs, please contact our IEP advocate Jessica.
Resources
Jessica Barisano, IEP and Parent Advocate, Parent of an Exceptional Child
Founder of Collaborative Corner for Exceptional Children
jessica@collaborativecorner.org