What is an IEP?

 An IEP, or Individualized Education Program, is a legally binding document that outlines the special education services, accommodations, and goals for a student with a disability.

Who is eligible for an IEP?

A student must be evaluated and found eligible under one of the 13 categories of disabilities recognized by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) to qualify for an IEP. The disability must affect the student's ability to learn in a general education classroom without specialized instruction.

How is an IEP developed?

An IEP is developed through a collaborative process involving the student’s parents or guardians, teachers, school administrators, and other relevant specialists. This team meets to discuss the student’s needs, set educational goals, and determine the appropriate accommodations and services.

What does an IEP include?

An IEP typically includes information about the student’s current performance, measurable annual goals, specific special education services, accommodations, and modifications, how progress will be measured, and how the student will participate in general education classes and activities.

How often is an IEP reviewed?

IEPs are reviewed at least once a year to assess the student’s progress and make any necessary adjustments. However, parents or educators can request an IEP meeting at any time if they believe changes are needed.

Can parents disagree with the IEP?

Yes, parents have the right to disagree with the IEP. If parents are not satisfied with the proposed IEP, they can request a meeting to discuss changes, request a mediator, or file a due process complaint to resolve the disagreement.

What happens if the IEP isn’t followed?

If the IEP is not being implemented as written, parents can address the issue by first discussing it with the school. If the issue persists, they can file a complaint with the school district or request a due process hearing.

How does the IEP address transitioning to adulthood?

Starting at age 14, the IEP must include a transition plan that outlines goals and services to help the student prepare for life after high school, whether that includes further education, employment, or independent living.

Can an IEP be changed during the school year?
Yes, an IEP can be revised at any time during the school year if the student’s needs change or if it becomes apparent that adjustments are needed to better support the student’s learning. 

What is a 504 Plan?

A 504 Plan is a formal plan developed by schools to give students with disabilities the accommodations they need to succeed academically. It’s covered under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, a civil rights law that ensures students with disabilities receive equal access to education.

Who is eligible for a 504 Plan?

A student is eligible for a 504 Plan if they have a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more major life activities, such as learning, walking, seeing, hearing, or breathing. Unlike an IEP, a 504 Plan does not require the student to need specialized instruction.

What types of accommodations can be included in a 504 Plan?

Accommodations in a 504 Plan can include things like extended time on tests, preferential seating, modified homework assignments, access to assistive technology, breaks during the school day, and changes to how information is presented.

How is a 504 Plan developed?

A 504 Plan is typically developed by a team that includes the student’s parents or guardians, teachers, school counselors, and other relevant staff. The team reviews the student’s needs and determines what accommodations are necessary to ensure equal access to education.

Do 504 Plans need to be reviewed?

Yes, 504 Plans should be reviewed at least annually to ensure that the accommodations are still appropriate and effective. However, reviews can happen more frequently if there are concerns about the student’s progress or if the student’s needs change.

Can parents request a 504 Plan for their child?

Yes, parents can request a 504 Plan evaluation for their child if they believe their child has a disability that requires accommodations. The school will then evaluate the child to determine eligibility.

What should a parent do if they disagree with the 504 Plan?

If parents disagree with the 504 Plan or the accommodations provided, they can request a meeting to discuss their concerns, seek mediation, or file a grievance with the school district.

How is a 504 Plan implemented?

Once a 504 Plan is developed, it’s the responsibility of the school to ensure that all teachers and staff working with the student are aware of the accommodations and implement them as specified in the plan.

Can a 504 Plan be changed?

Yes, a 504 Plan can be modified at any time if the student’s needs change or if the current accommodations are not effective. Parents or school staff can request a meeting to review and update the plan as needed.

What happens if the 504 Plan is not followed?

If the 504 Plan is not being followed, parents should first address the issue with the school. If the issue is not resolved, they can file a complaint with the school district or seek further action under Section 504 guidelines.

Does a 504 Plan follow the student to college?
While 504 Plans do not directly transfer to college, the student’s eligibility for accommodations can. In college, students need to register with the disability services office, which will develop a new plan for accommodations based on their documented needs. 

🔗 Parent Notice of Procedural Safeguards
A comprehensive guide provided by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education outlining the legal rights and protections for parents and their children in the special education process, including due process rights and the procedures for resolving disputes. 

🔗 IEP Process Guide
An informative resource detailing the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process in Massachusetts, offering step-by-step guidance for parents, educators, and advocates on developing, implementing, and reviewing an IEP to meet the educational needs of students with disabilities. 

🔗 A Parent's Guide to Special Education
A user-friendly manual designed to help parents understand the special education system in Massachusetts, covering everything from eligibility determination to the development of an IEP and the provision of services, ensuring parents can effectively advocate for their child’s educational needs. 

🔗 Special Education Terms
A glossary of commonly used terms and acronyms in the field of special education, providing clear definitions to help parents, educators, and advocates better understand the language and concepts related to special education services and processes. 

🔗 MA Approved Special Education Private Schools
A directory of private schools in Massachusetts that are approved by the state to provide specialized educational services to students with disabilities, offering information on each school’s programs, services, and admission criteria. 

🔗 MA Organization of Education Collaboratives
An association representing educational collaboratives across Massachusetts, which are regional organizations that provide special education programs, professional development, and shared services to member school districts, supporting the diverse needs of students with disabilities. 

🔗 MA Education Law Center
This organization provides legal advocacy and support focused on education-related issues in Massachusetts, particularly for children with disabilities. It offers resources and representation to ensure students receive appropriate educational services. 

🔗 Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates
A national organization that supports parents, attorneys, advocates, and others working to protect the legal and civil rights of students with disabilities. COPAA offers resources, training, and advocacy to ensure students have access to a free appropriate public education. 

🔗 Free Special Education Consultation Service for Military Connected Families
A specialized service offering free consultations to military families navigating special education for their children. The service helps families understand their rights and secure the necessary educational support for their children. 

🔗 The EdLaw Project
A collaboration between the Children’s Law Center of Massachusetts and the Committee for Public Counsel Services, the EdLaw Project provides legal assistance to students in Massachusetts facing issues related to special education, school discipline, and more, aiming to keep students on track academically. 

🔗 Association of Autism and Neurodiversity IEP Consultation Service
This organization provides consultation services to parents of children with autism and other neurodiverse conditions. It focuses on helping families navigate the IEP (Individualized Education Program) process to ensure their children receive appropriate educational accommodations and services. 

🔗 Disability Law Center of MA
The Disability Law Center (DLC) is a non-profit organization offering legal advocacy for individuals with disabilities in Massachusetts. They provide resources and representation on issues like special education, discrimination, and access to services. 

🔗 A Parent's Guide to Selecting an Educational Advocate
A resource designed to help parents understand how to choose an educational advocate for their child. It provides guidance on what to look for, questions to ask, and how to ensure the advocate will effectively support the child’s educational needs. 

🔗 National Disability Rights Network (NDRN)
Provides advocacy and legal support for individuals with disabilities, including help with securing assistive technology through schools and other agencies.