Individualized Education Program
An IEP is developed under IDEA for an eligible student who needs special education and related services. It documents goals, services, supports, and progress measurement.
Section 504 plan
Section 504 protects against disability discrimination. A school plan commonly documents accommodations and supports needed for equal access.
Eligibility requires an individualized evaluation and the applicable team process. Some students may be protected by both IDEA and Section 504.
Prepare for a productive meeting
Bring current evidence
Summarize work samples, progress data, attendance, observations, successful supports, and family concerns.
Connect needs to services
Each proposed goal, accommodation, service, or support should respond to an identified need.
Leave with shared clarity
Confirm who will provide each support, when it occurs, and how progress will be communicated.
Write measurable annual goals
Identify the observable skill, conditions, performance criterion, and measurement method. Baseline data should make expected growth understandable.