As students head back to school this fall, some parents may be wondering if an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or 504 Plan may be appropriate for their child. Many parents come to FamilyFirst with this question and voice confusion about the difference between an IEP and a 504 Plan. Laws at the federal, state and local levels impact education policy and implementation, potentially making IEPs and 504 Plans even more confusing to parents. In simple terms, a student who needs academic accommodations may qualify for a 504 Plan and a student who needs academic services may qualify for an IEP (though accommodations are often part of an IEP as well).  Here is some brief information about IEPs, 504 Plans, and the special education process, as well as recommended resources for learning more. 

Individualized Education Program (IEP)

• Based on Individual with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA) and monitored by the Virginia Department of Education and United States Department of Education.
• An IEP is developed for a student with a recognized disability who needs special education services.

504 Plans

• 504 Plans are based on civil rights protected under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. This law prohibits discrimination based on disability status.
• Eligibility is based on a student having a physical or mental impairment/disability that substantially limits a major life activity.
• A 504 Plan provides accommodations and modifications in the classroom, on academic assignments, and/or on tests.

For both IEP’s and 504 Plans, the basic process for eligibility is as follows:

• Someone voices suspicion that the child may have a disability/impairment and refers the child to the school’s guidance counselor.
• Local screening occurs at the school to determine the appropriate next step(s).
• If needed, the child is evaluated to determine whether a disability exists. 
• A team meets to determine if the child is eligible for services and, if so, what services and/or accommodations might be appropriate through an IEP or 504 Plan.

To learn more about the process of eligibility for IEP’s and 504 Plans, review the following resources and/or consult with your child’s school guidance counselor:

• Understanding the Differences Between IEPs and 504 Plans –  https://www.understood.org/en/articles/the-difference-between-ieps-and-504-plans
  
• Parent’s Guide to Special Education from the Virginia Department of Education – https://www.doe.virginia.gov/special_ed/parents/parents_guide.pdf
• A Guide to the 504 Plan from the Virginia Department of Education – https://doe.virginia.gov/special_ed/tech_asst_prof_dev/section_504_implementation_va.pdf
• The Special Education Process from Fairfax County Public Schools – https://www.fcps.edu/academics/academic-overview/special-education-instruction/special-education-process
• 504 Plan Procedures from Fairfax County Public Schools – https://www.fcps.edu/academics/academic-overview/special-education-instruction/special-education-procedural-support-3

Licensed Clinical Psychologist