What is the Difference Between IEP and 504?
The terms IEP and 504 are often used in the context of special education, but many people are not fully aware of the differences between them. An IEP, or Individualized Education Program, and a 504 Plan are both designed to support students with disabilities, but they have distinct purposes and requirements.
IEP (Individualized Education Program)
An IEP is a legally binding document that outlines the specific accommodations and services a student with a disability will receive in a public school setting. It is developed by a team of professionals, including the student’s parents, teachers, and school administrators. The IEP must be reviewed and updated annually to ensure that the student’s needs are being met.
Key features of an IEP include:
1. Specific goals and objectives: The IEP defines the student’s academic, developmental, and functional needs, and sets specific goals and objectives to address these needs.
2. Accommodations and modifications: The IEP outlines the accommodations and modifications that will be provided to the student to ensure they have equal access to the curriculum.
3. Special education services: The IEP may include services such as speech therapy, occupational therapy, or physical therapy, depending on the student’s needs.
4. Progress monitoring: The IEP requires regular monitoring of the student’s progress towards their goals, with adjustments made as necessary.
504 Plan (Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973)
A 504 Plan is a written document that outlines the accommodations and modifications a student with a disability may need to participate in school activities. Unlike an IEP, a 504 Plan is not legally binding, but it is still enforceable under the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
Key features of a 504 Plan include:
1. Accommodations and modifications: Similar to an IEP, a 504 Plan outlines the accommodations and modifications a student may need to access the curriculum and participate in school activities.
2. No special education services: While a 504 Plan may include accommodations, it does not typically include special education services, such as speech therapy or occupational therapy.
3. Review and updates: A 504 Plan should be reviewed and updated as needed, but there is no specific timeline for these reviews.
4. No eligibility criteria: Unlike an IEP, which requires a student to have a disability that affects their educational performance, a 504 Plan can be used for any student with a disability, regardless of their academic performance.
Conclusion
In summary, the main difference between an IEP and a 504 Plan is that an IEP is a legally binding document that outlines specific accommodations and services for a student with a disability, while a 504 Plan is a non-binding document that outlines accommodations and modifications to help a student with a disability access school activities. Both are important tools for supporting students with disabilities, and the choice between them depends on the individual needs of the student.
