ALT What is the difference between an IEP and 504 plan? There are many ways that schools can provide support for students with learning disabilities. If a student is able to succeed with only needing accommodations to access material, a 504 is generally recommended. If modifications via specially designed instruction are needed, along with accommodations, an Individualized Education Program is generally recommended. But how are they different?

ALT IEP vs. 504 plan What are they? An Individualized Education Program is a legal document created for a child who needs specially designed instruction. This is provided by a team of public school personnel and the child's caregiver(s) via special education. The plan must: • identify a learner's present levels of performance. • establish annual goals • determine services, supports, and activities. • identify the Least Restrictive Environment • establish a Contingency Plan • report progress to the child’s caregivers. A 504 plan is a legal document created for a child who has a confirmed or suspected disability to ensure they receive accommodations critical to their academic success. A 504 plan typically includes: • Specific accommodations, supports or services. • The names of who will be accountable for providing each service. • The name of the person responsible for ensuring the plan is implemented.

ALT IEP vs. 504 plan Why are they used? The Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) is a federal special education law. It requires schools to provide children with disabilities with a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). An IEP documents that FAPE is being fulfilled for an eligible child, and it has the protections of the Procedural Safeguards. An EP is used when a modification is needed to address a child's needs. 504 plans ensure that learners with disabilities receive the accommodations they need. Access to these accommodations is protected under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, a federal civil rights law to prevent discrimination against people with disabilities. A 504 plan is used when an accommodation can address a child's needs, and modifications are not necessary.

ALT IEP vs. 504 plan Who are they for? To be eligible for an IEP, two requirements must be met: • A child has one or more of the 13 disabilities listed in the IDEA • The disability must affect the child's educational performance and/or ability to learn and benefit from the general education curriculum. To be eligible for a 504 plan, the child must: have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activity (e.g., reading, writing, math). have a record of impairment. be regarded as having such an impairment.