How does a 504 Plan differ from an IEP?

How does a 504 Plan differ from an IEP?

• A. A 504 Plan is a medical plan for students.
• B. A 504 Plan provides accommodations to remove barriers for students with disabilities but does not require specialized instruction or a comprehensive IEP; IEPs require specialized instruction under IDEA.
• C. A 504 Plan requires specialized instruction; IEP does not.
• D. 504 Plan is applicable only to high school students.

Answer: (B)

A 504 Plan focuses on removing barriers so a student can access the general education curriculum by providing accommodations and supports. It doesn’t require specialized instruction or a detailed, goals-driven program. An IEP, on the other hand, is a comprehensive plan under IDEA that outlines specialized instruction and related services (such as therapy or transportation), with specific annual goals, progress monitoring, and a team process. Eligibility also differs: a 504 Plan covers disabilities that substantially limit major life activities and aims to level the playing field through accommodations, while an IEP is for students who need specialized instruction and related services beyond accommodations. In short, a 504 Plan ensures access through accommodations, whereas an IEP provides targeted instruction and services.

A 504 Plan focuses on removing barriers so a student can access the general education curriculum by providing accommodations and supports. It doesn’t require specialized instruction or a detailed, goals-driven program. An IEP, on the other hand, is a comprehensive plan under IDEA that outlines specialized instruction and related services (such as therapy or transportation), with specific annual goals, progress monitoring, and a team process. Eligibility also differs: a 504 Plan covers disabilities that substantially limit major life activities and aims to level the playing field through accommodations, while an IEP is for students who need specialized instruction and related services beyond accommodations. In short, a 504 Plan ensures access through accommodations, whereas an IEP provides targeted instruction and services.