An Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is a personalized plan or program developed to ensure that a child with an identified disability attending an elementary or secondary educational institution receives specialized instruction and related services. The IEP is developed by a team of individuals from various educational disciplines, the child with a disability, family members, and/or designated advocates. It typically includes the involvement and progress of the child with a disability in the general curriculum, all related services for which the child qualifies, appropriate educational accommodations necessary for the child to be successful, the childs present levels of educational performance, and measurable annual goals and objectives for the childs education.
The purpose of an IEP is to lay out the special education instruction, supports, and services a student needs to thrive in school. It is more than just a written legal document; its a map that lays out the program of special education instruction, supports, and services kids need to make progress and thrive in school. IEPs are covered by special education law, or the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and are created for eligible kids who attend public school, including charter schools. Having an IEP gives students, families, and schools legal protections and lets families be involved in decisions that impact their child’s education.
In contrast, a 504 Plan is developed to ensure that a child who has a disability identified under the law and is attending an elementary or secondary educational institution receives accommodations that will ensure their academic success and access to the learning environment. Not all students who have disabilities require specialized instruction. For students with disabilities who do not require specialized instruction but need the assurance that they will receive equal access to public education and services, a document is created to outline their specific accessibility requirements. Students with 504 Plans do not require specialized instruction, but, like the IEP, a 504 Plan should be updated annually to ensure that the student is receiving the most effective accommodations for his/her specific circumstances.
In summary, an IEP is a personalized plan for students with disabilities that ensures they receive specialized instruction and related services, while a 504 Plan is for students who do not require specialized instruction but need accommodations to ensure equal access to education and services. Both plans are designed to support students with disabilities in their educational journey.
