Children struggling with mental illness face many challenges. Sometimes the pressures of school can create additional issues and put more pressure on your teen. For teens struggling with mental illness, the pressure can be immense. Just getting out of bed can be a battle. Some children may feel overwhelmed when faced with a test, others may not be able to start school on time. There are days when they can’t focus, and trying to carry the weight of mental illness while succeeding in class can put some kids over the edge. An IEP or 504 plan can help. If you feel your child could benefit from a 504 or an IEP, we will list some steps that can help.

We have had our fair share of dealing with 504 plans and school districts. We have been fortunate; most of the schools Jake attended during the implementation of the plan were open and supportive. Unfortunately, there was one school that caused issues. Jake dealt with severe bullying at this particular school, and though they had a zero-tolerance policy, it continued to happen. We had numerous meetings with the principal, teachers, and the superintendent. We made zero progress, and I realized for the sake of my son we needed to switch schools. Once we placed him in another school, those issues dissipated, but some others arose. My son struggled with great anxiety over tests, and because depression causes extreme fatigue, Jake had several mornings where he was unable to get out of bed. With the help of a 504, we were able to develop a specific plan for my son to start later in the day. On days where his anxiety was high, he was able to spend a few minutes in the nurse’s office, without question, to help him calm down. He was still responsible for taking tests and completing his assignments, but we were able to develop a plan that helped him succeed in school, while battling his illness. One thing I learned from that experience is sometimes you have to fight. You are your child’s best advocate. if you feel your child needs more than what he or she is getting, or needs something different, fight for it. Listen to your instincts and go with your gut; no one knows your child better than you.

Both plans can offer help for your child in elementary, junior high, and high school, but which one will be best for your son or daughter will depend on their circumstances. Before we focus on how, it is important to understand what they are, and how they are different.

A 504 plan is a civil rights law developed in accordance with section 504 of the rehabilitation act.  It protects people with disabilities from discrimination in programs that receive federal funding like public schools. Section 504 provides accommodations, support services, and accommodations to ensure all students have the same educational opportunities. A 504 plan is for children that do not need specialized instruction, but require some changes or accommodations to help them in a general classroom environment. It is important to note that a child must meet the guidelines to be eligible for the plan such as a physical or learning disability that interferes with your child’s ability to learn in a standard classroom atmosphere. For example, it would not guarantee a child a spot on the football team, but it would require the school to provide special accommodations for a student who requires a wheelchair. Think of a 504 plan as the plan for how your child will access learning at his or her school.

An IEP or individualized Education Plan is an individualized special education program developed through Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). In order for your child to be eligible for an IEP, they must have at least one of 13 specific disabilities listed by IDEA (for more information visit: http://www.projectidealonline.org/v/disability-categories), and it must affect the ability for your son or daughter to learn in a standard classroom environment. An IEP is a plan for children requiring specialized instruction. Not all children are eligible for an IEP. If they are not, then a 504 plan may be an option. It provides a blueprint for your child to ensure they are making meaningful progress in school. Think of an IEP as a plan for your child’s special education needs at his or her school.

What are the key differences?

An IEP follows strict guidelines and it is governed under special education law. An IEP is created by a team that includes:

  • Child’s general education teacher
  • Child’s parent(s)
  • Special education teacher
  • School specialist such a school psychologist who can discuss and interpret evaluations
  • A representative from the school district

An IEP must be written out and must set specific goals for the child, and details the services the school will provide. It typically includes:

  • Child’s present levels based on evaluations, and academic goals
  • Learning Modifications
  • Accommodations
  • Specific standards for services such as what types of services will be provided and for how long
  • Any specific standards for testing. For example, your child may need an oral test instead of the standard written test
  • Must be reviewed every year

A 504 plan is less stringent and is governed by civil rights law. The team typically includes:

  • Child’s Parent(s)
  • School administration such as a principal or vice principal
  • General and special education teachers

There is no set standard for a 504 plan, and it does not need to be completed in writing. The 504 plan may carry over to college. The plan typically includes:

  • Accommodations
  • A list of who will provide services
  • Instructions for testing, for example, a child may need to take a test in a quiet room with no other children
  • An understanding of who is responsible for implementing the plan
  • Typically a 504 plan is reviewed yearly, but it can vary by state

A 504 or an IEP is not better than the other. It is important to speak to your child’s therapist to determine which one is right for your son or daughter. If your child does not have a therapist, I highly recommend finding one. Your child’s therapist can be an advocate, in case you run into issues with the school leadership. Some schools are better than others at implementing IEP’s or 504 plans, and therapists can be the difference between your child obtaining one, or being denied.

 

 

 

Project Ideal. Disability Categories. n.d. http://www.projectidealonline.org/v/disability-categories/ (accessed 21 2017, May).

New Hampshire Department of Education. Difference Between A Section 504 Plan And An IEP. 2012. https://www.education.nh.gov/instruction/school_health/faq_504.htm (accessed May 21, 2017).

Understood. The Difference Between IEPs and 504 Plans. n.d. https://www.understood.org/en/school-learning/special-services/504-plan/the-difference-between-ieps-and-504-plans (accessed 20 2017, May).