Comprehending the variations between a Section 504 and an IEP (Individualized Education Program) plan can seem daunting to even the most experienced educator or administrator. However, how to distinguish between the two plans is a commonly asked question, so in this article, we’ll address significant differences between a Section 504 and an IEP plan.
First, the legal basis of a Section 504 plan is the federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973, which is a special education law for children with disabilities. The legal basis for an IEP is the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), a federal civil rights law preventing discrimination against individuals with disabilities.
Second, the U.S. Department of Education: Office of Civil Rights is the overseeing agency of a Section 504 plan. The U.S. Department of Education: Office of Special Education and Rehabilitation Services is the overseeing agency of an IEP plan.
Another difference is that a 504 plan provides services, support, and adjustments to the regular classroom setting so students can learn along with their peers. However, an IEP offers personalized special education and related services that address an eligible student’s particular needs.
The learning institution must only contact the student’s family if a difference in the 504 plan is necessary. However, a prior written notice is required if a change in the IEP is needed. A 504 plan also has a more extensive definition of a disability than IDEA, which has to fit one of thirteen disability eligibility categories.
An IEP must be reviewed annually, and the student must be reevaluated and requalified every three years. Also, an IEP doesn’t have progress monitoring or goals. On the other hand, there is no requirement to review a 504 plan annually, and the plan has progress monitoring and goals.
Unlike an IEP, a 504 plan isn’t a special education program, and the student isn’t qualified to obtain additional services. An IEP provides eligible students with specially designed services and instructions, including occupational therapy, speech therapy, differentiated instruction, etc.
To develop a 504 plan, schools are not required to seek parental input. However, when developing an IEP plan, schools are mandated to invite parents to be members of the IEP team. Finally, 504 plans can transfer to college, and there are no age limits. Students with IEPs are secured until they turn 21 years old. Until then, they are eligible to stay in high school.
After reading this article, we hope that the disparities between a Section 504 and an IEP plan are made more apparent. While the two plans may have differences, both can be used to provide high-quality services to the students with disabilities that need the most support and resources.