What is an IEP or 504 Plan?

While it is expected that children will struggle in school at some point, some children’s have things that make learning especially difficult. Every child deserves the right of receiving adequate education that optimizes their chances of success. Accommodations and additional services are often necessary for children who possess individual strengths and weaknesses that may not align with a traditional classroom environment. Through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, it is lawfully required that children who are considered to have a disability and are deemed eligible are given accommodations and additional services to promote their academic success and grant them equal access to education. These accommodations and additional services are specifically tailored to the needs of the child through an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or a 504 Plan. While similar, there are distinctions within each plan as briefly noted below. Accommodations aren’t intended to give children an advantage over others, but rather to put them on level playing field with their peers.

IEP

An IEP is developed to serve as an outline for goals and milestones according to the unique abilities of the child. It’s created after a child has been evaluated and becomes eligible for services through receiving a diagnosis that requires specialized help with school. Some diagnoses include but are not limited to autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, and learning disorders. Emotional diagnosis such as anxiety and depression can be eligible diagnosis as well.

504 Plan

A 504 Plan follows Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as previously mentioned, its goal is to accommodate the child within a traditional classroom to ensure equal access to education.   

IEP vs 504

It is important to note the differences in accommodations and services received under each plan. Section 504 uses a broader definition of a disability, therefore, a child who isn’t eligible for an IEP may still be able to receive accommodations and services under a 504 Plan. A 504 Plan focuses on promoting success within the learning environment, accommodations can include additional time for test taking or turning in assignments. On the other hand, an IEP focuses on educational benefits in which the accommodations are done through direct services like speech or occupational therapy.   

What role do neuropsychological evaluations play in this? 

When a child is experiencing difficulties in the classroom, it’s important to find the root of their difficulties and explore where their strengths lie. In addition to providing a diagnosis, a criteria needed for eligibility to services, neuropsychological evaluations give a comprehensive understanding of how the child is processing information and making sense of their environment. This allows for recommendations that are uniquely tailored to the strengths of the child. Through the feedback sessions, families are additionally provided with psychoeducation and resources that allow them to become active collaborators and advocates for their children's success and resiliency.     

Are you wondering if a neuropsychological evaluation is right for your child? Book a free 15-minute consultation with one of our doctors to learn more!

By: Arusy Lemus