School Support: Understanding 504 Plans and IEPs
If your child is struggling in school, whether it’s with focus, learning, behavior, or even just keeping up, it can feel frustrating to know they’re capable but not getting the right kind of support. Maybe homework ends in tears, or you’re hearing the same concerns from teachers year after year. You want to help, but the system can feel confusing.
Here’s the good news: schools do have formal supports in place. Two of the most common are called a 504 Plan and an IEP. These plans give kids the tools and accommodations they need to be successful, and parents have the right to ask for them.
What’s a 504 Plan?
A 504 Plan comes from a civil rights law called Section 504. Its job is simple: make sure students with any disability or condition that impacts learning (like ADHD, anxiety, or a medical need) have equal access to education.
It doesn’t change what your child learns, it just changes how they access it.
Examples: extra time on tests, movement breaks, flexible seating, or the ability to use headphones in a noisy classroom.
What’s an IEP?
An IEP (Individualized Education Program) is a bit different. It comes from special education law (IDEA) and is for students who need more than accommodations, they need specialized instruction.
An IEP not only lays out supports but also sets learning goals and tracks progress with a team of teachers and specialists.
Examples: small group or resource room teaching, modified curriculum, speech or occupational therapy, or a behavior plan designed for your child.
How Do You Get One?
Here’s the step-by-step process:
Ask in writing. Send an email or letter to the school counselor, principal, or teacher asking for an evaluation.
Evaluation. The school gathers data from teachers, records, and sometimes formal testing.
Eligibility meeting. You’ll sit down with a team to decide if your child qualifies for a 504 or IEP.
Plan development. If yes, the team (including you!) creates the plan together.
Check-ins. Both 504 Plans and IEPs are reviewed at least once a year to make sure they’re still working.
504 Plans and IEPs exist to make sure your child has the tools they need to thrive. A 504 focuses on access, removing barriers so your child can learn like everyone else. An IEP focuses on access plus instruction, giving extra teaching and services to help your child grow.
If you’re not sure which one fits, start the conversation with your school. Put your request in writing, ask questions, and remember: you don’t have to know all the answers right away. Advocating for your child starts with speaking up and no one knows their needs better than you!