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Understanding the Difference Between IEPs and 504 Plans for California Special Education Students

Understanding the Difference Between IEPs and 504 Plans for California Special Education Students

As a Special Education Director, one of the most common questions I encounter from parents and educators is the difference between an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and a 504 Plan. Both are crucial tools designed to support students with disabilities, but they serve different purposes and are governed by different laws.

What is an IEP?

An Individualized Education Program (IEP) is a plan developed for students who qualify for special education services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). This plan is tailored to meet the unique needs of the student and includes:

The IEP is developed by a team that includes the student's parents, teachers, and other relevant school staff. This team meets at least once a year to review and update the plan, ensuring that it continues to meet the student's evolving needs.

What is a 504 Plan?

A 504 Plan, on the other hand, is designed for students who have disabilities that affect their ability to learn in a general education classroom but do not qualify for special education services under IDEA. These plans are covered under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1975 and focus on providing accommodations to ensure that students have equal access to education. Examples of accommodations in a 504 Plan include:

While parents, students, and school staff participate in 504 meetings, usually held annually, the legal and compliance requirements for a 504 Plan are less stringent compared to an IEP. This means that while the school is obligated to provide the necessary accommodations, the process is generally less formal.

Key Differences

To summarize, here are the key differences between an IEP and a 504 Plan:

Understanding these differences can help parents and educators better advocate for the needs of their students. If you have any further questions or need additional information, please follow this link.

Marnee Brick, President, TinyEYE Therapy Services

Author's Note: Marnee Brick, TinyEYE President, and her team collaborate to create our blogs. They share their insights and expertise in the field of Speech-Language Pathology, Online Therapy Services and Academic Research.

Connect with Marnee on LinkedIn to stay updated on the latest in Speech-Language Pathology and Online Therapy Services.

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