iep plan information
- What is the difference between an IEP and 504 Plan?
- How is it determined if a child needs an IEP?
What is the difference between an iep and 504 plan?
A 504 plan provides accommodations to general education students so that they can access the curriculum. An IEP provides a specialized program of instruction to students who have been identified under the law as having a particular educational disability. An IEP is a written document that outlines the supports and services that the IEP team agrees are required to meet the needs of a specific child, based on her or his disability. A student may require 504 accommodations but not IEP services. For example, if a student has poor vision, she or he may simply need 504 accommodations in the general education setting to see the blackboard or projection screen.
how is it determined if a child needs an iep?
After an adult contacts Child Find or school staff, the school’s IEP team meets to review information about the child. If the team suspects that the child has a disability and may need special education, assessments in all areas related to the suspected disability are recommended. These can usually be completed by staff at the school.
The IEP team reviews written reports of the assessments, which include summaries of how any identified disabilities may affect the child’s progress in school. The IEP team then completes the evaluation (within 60 days of receiving signed permission from the parent/guardian to assess the child or 90 days from the date of receipt of the written referral, whichever comes first). The parent is given a copy of the assessment reports, the evaluation report, and the IEP team meeting summary.
The evaluation report includes a determination of whether
- A disability has been identified
- Because of the disability, the child requires special education to be successful in the education setting
If both these things have been determined, an IEP is developed.
who is on an iep team?
Typically, the IEP team includes the following:
- Parent/guardian
- General education teacher
- Special education teacher
- Social worker
- Psychologist
- Speech pathologist
- Nurse/health-related service provider
- School administrator
- Outside agency personnel
Who should i contact if I have any questions or concerns?
The IEP chair can answer questions about your child’s IEP and delivery of services. You can also speak with your school principal.
If you do not receive the information you need or you have a concern that isn’t being addressed at the school, please contact the Special Education department in the district’s Academics Office.