504 plans: All that You Need to Know about IEPs and 504 Plans

What are an IEP and 504 plans?

Section 504 is a federal law that states that there will be no discrimination against someone with a disability by an organisation that receives federal funds. An IEP, on the other hand, is an Individualized Education Plan that gives special education and any other services required to students with any disability which prevents them from getting a proper education.

The basic difference between an IEP and a 504 plan is that in an IEP, special education is provided to students with a disability, while in 504 plans, the services provided enable the students to get an education alongside their peers.

Who is qualified for an IEP, and how do I get a 504 plan?

In an IEP, any child with a disability listed under the IDEA law that affects their educational performance and doesn't allow them to benefit under the general curriculum is eligible. In 504 plans, a child with any disability that affects their learning in a general classroom is eligible. Section 504 covers a broader range of disabilities. Anyone not qualified for an IEP can still qualify for a 504 plan. Parents need to approach their schools to discuss implementing these plans for their children.

What can you expect from these plans?

In an IEP, you'll have a meeting with your child's school to discuss how the plan will work and how it will help your child. Your child may also be evaluated to check the degree of disability, like taking an inattentive add test for a child with ADD. For example, if your child has ADHD, explaining ADHD to kids is very important, so they know how to go about in school. Under these plans, the teachers will give them extra attention, or another teacher will be assigned to them to make sure they understand their lessons. There will also be evaluations from time to time to determine continued eligibility. The school will take care of any other accommodation required by the child, whether that be a change in curriculum or getting videotaped for missed classes.

No one should be denied education or have their quality of education compromised just because they are disabled. These plans allow disabled children to live up to their potential and get the same opportunities as everyone else.