Difference Between a 504 Plan and an IEP

Differences. An IEP is an in-depth document for all students who require special education services. A 504 plan can accommodate students who can learn within a general education environment with stated modifications. ... An IEP can provide services and supports that a 504 plan can't, such as specialized instruction.

1. Is a 504 plan the same as an IEP?
2. Is an IEP better than a 504 plan?
3. Can a student have a 504 plan and an IEP?
4. Are 504 plans considered special education?
5. Is there a downside to having a 504 plan?
6. Does ADHD qualify for IEP or 504?
7. What qualifies as a 504 disability?
8. Does ADHD qualify for IEP?
9. Does a 504 plan cover anxiety?
10. What does 504 mean?
11. How long is a 504 plan good for?
12. Do parents have to consent to a 504 plan?

Is a 504 plan the same as an IEP?

IEP plans under IDEA cover students who qualify for Special Education. Section 504 covers students who don't meet the criteria for special education but who still require some accommodations.

Is an IEP better than a 504 plan?

A 504 Plan is a better option when the student is able to function well in a regular education environment with accommodations. The 504 is generally less restrictive than the IEP, and it is also less stigmatizing. An IEP is a better option for students with a disability that is adversely impacting education.

Can a student have a 504 plan and an IEP?

Answer: It's possible to have both an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and a 504 plan, but it would be unlikely for your child to need both. Here's why: Everything that's in a 504 plan can be included in an IEP. The IEP can also provide services and supports that would not be available in a 504 plan.

Are 504 plans considered special education?

504 plans aren't part of special education. So, they're different from IEPs. 504 plans and IEPs are covered by different laws and work in different ways. But the end goal is the same: to help students thrive in school.

Is there a downside to having a 504 plan?

There really is no disadvantage. The only possible disadvantage may be that there is usually more money tied into Special Education so she may receive more services under an IEP but in her case I'm not even sure what she'd classify under.

Does ADHD qualify for IEP or 504?

If your child has ADHD and another disability, such as a speech impairment or dyslexia, it's more likely he'll be covered under IDEA. If your child has been denied an IEP, but his ADHD still limits his ability to learn in an educa- tional setting, he may qualify for accommodations or services under Section 504.

What qualifies as a 504 disability?

Section 504 protects qualified individuals with disabilities. Under this law, individuals with disabilities are defined as persons with a physical or mental impairment which substantially limits one or more major life activities.

Does ADHD qualify for IEP?

Children with disabilities -- including ADHD, autism, and physical disabilities -- can get an IEP if there's evidence the condition affects their ability to succeed in school. An IEP can include either accommodations or modifications.

Does a 504 plan cover anxiety?

It is important to remember that 504 Plans and IEPs are not treatment plans. They consist of accommodations that allow the anxious child to be able to learn as their non-anxious peers do –– to get them to the starting line, so to speak. Without them, anxiety can be so severe that it makes learning nearly impossible.

What does 504 mean?

504 Plan Defined

The 504 Plan is a plan developed to ensure that a child who has a disability identified under the law and is attending an elementary or secondary educational institution receives accommodations that will ensure their academic success and access to the learning environment.

How long is a 504 plan good for?

The law doesn't require an annual 504 plan re-evaluation. It only requires “periodic re-evaluation,” which is generally every three years or so. If there are significant changes in your child's needs or placement in school, then you may want to consider asking for a re-evaluation, in addition to a review.

Do parents have to consent to a 504 plan?

As this is an agreement between the family and the school, parental consent is required for a Section 504 Plan. The Section 504 Chairperson should provide copies of the 504 Plan to staff and parent(s), including the school's testing coordinator, if appropriate.