Hope Haven | Center for Educational Advocacy | Empowering Parents | IEPs & 504 Plans Resource Guide
A Simplified Guide to IEPs & 504 Plans in Florida
Understanding the school system can be tough, especially if your child has special learning needs. As parents, you want your child to do well in school. But figuring out Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 Plans can be confusing.
At Hope Haven, we believe every child should get the best education for their needs. That’s why we made this easy guide to help you understand IEPs and 504 Plans. We want to give you the knowledge and tools to support your child’s education.
Whether you’re new to this or looking to improve your child’s support, we’re here to help. Let’s see how these plans can make a big difference in your child’s school experience.
Table of Contents
Hope Haven | Center for Educational Advocacy | Empowering Parents | IEPs & 504 Plans Resource Guide
What Are IEPs & 504 Plans?
IEP:
Purpose: Helps students with disabilities succeed in school.
Key Components:
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IEPs have specific, measurable goals tailored to the student’s unique needs (1).
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IEPs include specialized instruction and related services like speech therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling (1).
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IEPs require regular progress reports and updates on your student's goals. (5).
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Think of an IEP like a custom-tailored suit, designed to fit the unique needs of your child.
For instance, if your child struggles with reading, the IEP might include daily one-on-one reading sessions with a specialist (1).
504 Plan:
Purpose: Ensures students with disabilities have equal access to education.
Key Components:
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Adjustments like extra time on tests, modified seating, or the use of technology aids (1)
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Ensures the learning environment is accessible, such as providing a ramp for a student in a wheelchair (2).
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Unlike IEPs, 504 plans do not require regular progress checks or detailed reports (1).
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A 504 Plan is like adding ramps and elevators to a building, making it accessible to everyone. For example, a student with ADHD might receive extended time on exams and the ability to take breaks during class (1).
Hope Haven | Center for Educational Advocacy | Empowering Parents | IEPs & 504 Plans Resource Guide
What are the Similarities & Differences?
Who Benefits Most?
IEP: Best for students needing specialized instruction and services. For example, a student with autism who speech therapy and social skills training (1).
504 Plan: Ideal for students who need accommodations but can stay in regular classes. For instance, a student with diabetes who needs to take breaks to check their blood sugar (8).
Can a Student Have Both?
Yes, some students might need both an IEP and a 504 Plan to fully support their needs. For example, a student with a learning disability might have an IEP for specialized instruction and a 504 Plan for classroom accommodations (1).
Hope Haven | Center for Educational Advocacy | Empowering Parents | IEPs & 504 Plans Resource Guide
what Factors Affect IEP & 504 Plan Evaluations:
Increasing Support:
Keep Good Records: Save all important documents about your child’s needs and progress, like medical records, teacher notes, and past tests.
Regular Check-Ups: Have frequent evaluations to update the IEP or 504 Plan. This can include academic tests, behavior assessments, and therapy evaluations.
Work Together: Parents and teachers should work as a team to support the student. Attend meetings, share your thoughts, and follow through on plans.
Decreasing Support:
Incomplete Records: Not having all the necessary documents can lead to less support.
Few Check-Ups: Without regular updates, the IEP or 504 Plan might not match the student’s current needs.
Less Involvement: If parents are not actively involved, the support might not be as effective.
Importance of Parental Involvement:
Stay Involved: Go to all meetings and talk regularly with teachers. This shows your child that their education is important.
Track Progress: Use tools like a progress tracker or journal to keep an eye on your child’s achievements and areas needing improvement.
Be Proactive: Speak up for your child’s needs and make sure they get the support they deserve. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or request more resources.
Hope Haven | Center for Educational Advocacy | Empowering Parents | IEPs & 504 Plans Resource Guide
How Do I Get Started?
IEPs (Individualized Education Programs):
Getting Started:
To get an IEP, your child needs to be evaluated to see if they qualify for special education. This evaluation includes tests and observations to understand your child’s needs (9).
Creating the IEP:
A team, including you, teachers, and specialists, will work together to create a plan. The IEP will have specific goals and services to help your child succeed in school (9).
Checking Progress:
The IEP is reviewed every year to see how your child is doing and to make changes if needed. You can ask for a meeting anytime if you have concerns about your child’s progress (9).
Where to Find Help:
The Florida Department of Education has lots of resources to help you understand IEPs. The Bureau of Exceptional Education and Student Services (BEESS) (10).
504 Plans:
Getting Started:
A 504 Plan is for students who have a disability that affects their daily activities. The school will gather information from you, teachers, and doctors to see if your child qualifies (11).
Creating the 504 Plan:
A team, including you and school staff, will create a plan to provide the necessary accommodations. The plan will focus on removing barriers so your child can access education like other students (11).
Checking Progress:
The 504 Plan is reviewed regularly to make sure it still meets your child’s needs. Changes can be made based on how your child is doing (11).
Where to Find Help:
The Florida Department of Education has a guide to help you understand 504 Plans. BEESS also offers support and information for parents and schools (10).
Hope Haven | Center for Educational Advocacy | Empowering Parents | IEPs & 504 Plans Resource Guide
Helpful Best Practice Tips
Tips for Communicating with Teachers
Regular Check-Ins: Schedule regular meetings or calls with your child’s teachers to discuss progress and any concerns.
Be Clear and Concise: Clearly communicate your child’s needs and any changes you notice.
Stay Positive: Approach conversations with a positive attitude and a collaborative mindset.
Tips for Tracking Progress
Use a Journal: Keep a daily or weekly journal of your child’s progress and any challenges they face.
Set Goals: Work with your child to set achievable goals and celebrate their successes.
Review Reports: Regularly review progress reports and assessments from the school.
Use Apps: Consider using apps like ClassDojo, Seesaw, or Khan Academy to track your child’s progress and stay connected with their teachers.
Tips for Being Proactive
Educate Yourself: Learn about your child’s rights and the resources available to them.
Stay Organized: Keep all documents, reports, and communications in one place.
Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to advocacy groups or professionals for help.
Hope Haven's Center for Educational Advocacy
How our Center for Educational Advocacy Can Help
Guidance: At Hope Haven our Education Advocates will help you understand the IEP and 504 Plan processes, breaking down complex information into manageable pieces. For example, we can explain the legal rights your child has under these plans.
Support: Our Education Advocates assists in meetings and evaluations, ensuring your child’s needs are met. We can attend school meetings with you to provide support and advocacy.
Resources: We provide tools and resources to help you advocate for your child, including workshops and one-on-one consultations. For instance, we offer training sessions on how to effectively communicate with school staff.
Examples: If your child is struggling with reading, our Education Advocates can help you understand what specific interventions might be included in an IEP, such as one-on-one tutoring or specialized reading programs.
Additional Questions, Answers & Resources
Does an IEP and/or 504 Plan Assist with Transportation to and from School?
Both IEPs and 504 Plans can include transportation accommodations if necessary for the student to access their education (7).
What to Do If Your Child Is Not Getting the Support Set Down in an IEP and/or 504 Plan?
Step 1: Speak to your child’s teacher and support staff directly to ensure all parts of the IEP or 504 Plan are being followed.
Step 2: Request a formal meeting to review the plan if issues persist.
Step 3: If the problem continues, escalate the issue to the school principal or special education coordinator.
Step 4: If necessary, seek assistance from an educational advocate or legal professional.
References
Helpful Resources
A Parent’s Introduction to Exceptional Student Education in Florida
Florida Dept. of Education - District Implementation Guide for Section 504
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