To qualify for an IEP, a student must have a disability that affects their ability to learn or access education and require special education services.
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) is the federal law that governs how public schools must serve children with disabilities from birth until age 22.
504 Plans help students with disabilities access the same education as their classmates. A child has the right to a 504 plan if: They have any disability, have a record of a disability, or are regarded as having a disability, AND. The disability interferes with their ability to learn in a general education classroom.
504 plans are formal plans that schools develop to give kids with disabilities the support they need. That covers any condition that limits daily activities in a major way. These plans prevent discrimination. And they protect the rights of kids with disabilities in school.
To qualify under Section 504 a student must: Be determined to have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, including learning and behavior. Have a record of having such an impairment OR. Be regarded as having such impairment.
An IEP gives special education that is unique to each child. It also gives other services (such as therapies and adaptive physical education) to meet the needs of each child. A 504 plan gives changes to the learning setting to meet the needs of each child.