The Section 504 plan is NOT an IEP and that is the only part that is clear. Understanding the differences can be critical. If you have a scholar who should have an IEP and you are given a 504-accommodation plan instead, you will not be able to get the supports necessary for functional outcomes because most of them are not available under a 504.
504 Plan
Section 504 is a part of a civil rights statute called the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
It prohibits discrimination based upon a documented disability. It requires that the needs of scholars with disabilities be met as adequately as the needs of their peers without disabilities.
Section 504 states that No qualified individual with a disability
be excluded from the participation in
be denied the benefits of, or
be subjected to discrimination
under any program or activity receiving Federal financial assistance because of their disability.
A scholar (who does NOT have an IEP under special education) but requires accommodations or modifications to assure that they will receive equal access to public education and services, during the school day, must have a written 504 plan to outline their specific accessibility requirements.
Scholars with 504 Plans do not require specialized instruction, but, like the IEP, a 504 Plan should be updated annually to ensure that the scholar is receiving the most effective accommodations for their specific circumstances.
It may address any documented disability that does not reach the level of severity for special education services required under IDEA – the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.
Each public school has a 504 coordinator. This is usually a principal, assistant principal, or guidance counselor. This person coordinates the development, maintenance, and implementation of 504 plans.
Scholars with a disability that qualify are entitled to:
A 504 Accommodation Plan
Modifications
Accommodations
Due Process
Evaluations
IEP - Individualized Education Program
For scholas with disabilities who DO require specialized instruction
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act controls the procedural requirements.
An IEP is developed and requires measurable growth.
The IEP process is much more involved than the 504-plan process.
A scholar is classified as having a disability under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act because they cannot access their education without specially designed instructions that include accommodations, modification, or related services.
They are entitled to:
A special education placement in the least restrictive environment.
An educational program addresses academic, extracurricular, and functional needs
A specially designed Individual Education Program (IEP)
Modifications
Accommodations
Annual Review
Re-evaluations
Due process
Transition Services