Which statement best differentiates an IEP from a 504 Plan?

Which statement best differentiates an IEP from a 504 Plan?

• A. An IEP includes specialized instruction; a 504 Plan provides accommodations.
• B. An IEP and a 504 Plan require identical services.
• C. A 504 Plan requires specialized instruction.
• D. Only students with physical disabilities qualify for a 504 Plan.

Answer: (A)

An IEP is created to provide specialized instruction and related services tailored to a student’s specific learning needs, with goals and progress measured over time. It’s part of IDEA and involves a formal plan for what instructional services the student will receive, such as specialized teaching, therapies, and other supports. A 504 Plan, under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, focuses on removing barriers by providing accommodations so the student can access the general education curriculum. It does not authorize specialized instruction. So, the statement that best differentiates them is that an IEP includes specialized instruction, while a 504 Plan provides accommodations. Keep in mind that some students may have both, and eligibility criteria and processes differ between the two.

An IEP is created to provide specialized instruction and related services tailored to a student’s specific learning needs, with goals and progress measured over time. It’s part of IDEA and involves a formal plan for what instructional services the student will receive, such as specialized teaching, therapies, and other supports.

A 504 Plan, under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, focuses on removing barriers by providing accommodations so the student can access the general education curriculum. It does not authorize specialized instruction.

So, the statement that best differentiates them is that an IEP includes specialized instruction, while a 504 Plan provides accommodations. Keep in mind that some students may have both, and eligibility criteria and processes differ between the two.