IEP or 504...Which is right for your child?

      An individualized education program (IEP) is a written statement of the educational
program designed to meet your child's special needs.   The program should include
statements of your child's strengths as well as weaknesses and should describe the
instructional program developed specifically for your child.  
The IEP has two purposes: 1) to establish the learning goals for your child;
and 2) to state the services that the school district is required to provide.
  The law requires that every child receiving special-education services have an IEP, and
states that their parents have the right to receive their own copy of this document.   It is
important that you keep a copy of your child's IEP in order to check on your child's progress
and treatment.

      A 504 plan is a legal document falling under the provisions of the Rehabilitation Act of
1973.   It is designed to plan a program of instructional services to assist students with special
needs who are in a regular education setting.   A 504 plan is not an Individualized Education
Program (IEP) as is required for special education students.   However, a student moving
from a special education to a regular education placement could be placed under a 504 plan.