Education

There are two main educational plans that parents of children with autism need to be aware of: IEP and the 504 Plan

An IEP, or an Individualized Education Program, creates a specific education plan for students with disabilities. This plan is unique to each student, and helps to ensure that they receive the necessary support and services they need to succeed in school. 

 

Remember, you are your child’s first advocate!!

Components of an IEP Plan include:

  • Assessment of the student’s current abilities and challenges

  • Specific and measurable objectives that the student is expected to achieve within a year. 

https://www.understood.org/en/articles/how-to-tell-if-your-childs-iep-goals-are-smart

  • Description of the services the student will receive. For example:

    • Speech therapy

    • Occupational Therapy

  • Adjustments to the learning environment and/or curriculum to support the needs of the student. For example:

    • Extended time on tests

    • Modified Assignments

    • Teacher Aides

  • Methods for tracking the student’s progress towards goals. 

The process of obtaining an IEP follows:

  • A student is referred for evaluation by a teacher, parent, or doctor. 

  • A comprehensive assessment by a team of professionals to determine eligibility.

  • Development of the IEP is conducted by a team. This includes the parents, teachers, any advocates present, and specialists. 

  • The IEP is put into action and reviewed at least annually to review progress. 

Tips for creating an IEP:

  1. Know your rights, as parents. Parents are the best advocates for their kids.

  2. Document everything. Keep all of the communication in writing.

  3. Read the IEP Parental Rules and Responsibilities, and make sure you understand it thoroughly. 

  4. Don’t be afraid. At the end of the day, you’re doing what is right for your kid.

A 504 Plan is used to provide accommodations for students with disabilities to ensure their academic success and access to the learning environment.

Components of 504 Plan include:

  • A detailed description of the student’s disability, including a statement confirming the disability
    and how it limits one or more major life activities.
  • Explanation on how the disability affects the student’s access to the educational environment.
  • Documentation of the disability such as medical records and evaluation reports.
  • Specific accommodations, services, or supports that need to be provided, including the details
    on who will provide the accommodations.
  • This can include assistive technology, testing accommodations, and/or transportation
    accommodations.
  • Any necessary medical interventions or health-related accommodations.
  • Strategies and interventions for managing behavior (if applicable).
  • When and where the accommodations will be provided.
  • Frequency and duration of the accommodations and services.
  • Methods for monitoring the student’s progress and the effectiveness of the accommodations.
  • Schedule for reviewing and updating the plan, typically at least annually.

The process of obtaining a 504 is:

  • Recognition that a student has a disability that has an impact on their learning

  • Assessment to determine what accommodations may be necessary

  • A meeting involving parents, teachers, and school staff to develop a 504.

  • The plan is put into action and review periodically for progress. 

Tips for creating a 504 Plan include:

1. Get involved as soon as possible.

2. Make sure the plan is personalized and helps all of your child’s needs.

3. Be specific about the services included in the plan.

4. Check in with your child’s teachers and review the plan annually

Difference between IEP and 504

Just a heads-up – The info here is for general guidance only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Always consult a professional in the corresponding field for personalized recommendations

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