Your Special Education Rights is an online advocacy resource for parents of children who have disabilities and need customized support at school. The site is hosted by special education advocate Julie Swanson and attorney Jennifer Laviano, who explain complex legal and educational issues in plain English from a parent-to-parent point of view. The site features forums, videos, and a blog.
In one recent informative video, Jen and Julie, as they refer to themselves on-site, explain the differences between an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and a 504 Plan. Depending on needs, a student may have one, the other, or both.
According to Julie and Jen, 504 plans are for children who need only supporting accommodations at school, such as sitting up front or having use of an elevator, but do not need any modifications to the way instruction is delivered. Children who need adaptive instruction methods get IEPs.
Click here to watch this video, and be sure to explore the site for more information.