504 vs IEP

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What is the difference between a Section 504 plan and an IEP:

Section 504 Plan: (Chapter 61)

Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1974 is a FEDERAL CIVIL RIGHTS LAW that protects students with disabilities from discrimination. In Hawaii, Chapter 61 (previously Chapter 53) is the Hawaii Administrative Rule that ensures the applicability of § 504 in the public schools and assures a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) to eligible students with disabilities.

To qualify for a 504 Plan, a student must have a disability that is affecting a major life function. Unlike an IEP, a "major life function" does not have to be educational impact. A student can be doing well academically, but need social skills assistance or organizational skills due to ADHD. With either plan, a direct connection must be made from the disability to the impairment in school. A 504 Plan is usually a good option when the student is able to function well in a regular education environment with accommodations. The 504 is generally less restrictive than the IEP.

Individualized Education Plan--IEP: (Chapter 60)

The Department of Education provides special education and related services to children, age 3 to 20, who meet the eligibility requirements due to a disability that affects their educational success. Special Education is specially designed instruction to meet the unique learning needs of students who require Individualized Education Programs (IEPs). 

An IEP is usually a good option for students with a disability that is adversely impacting education. Students who need more than just accommodations to regular education would need an IEP. Eligibility in Special Education opens the door to a variety of services.

*The difference between a 504 AP and an IEP is that with a 504 AP, it evens the playing field for students, allows them access to the same curriculum as their same age peers. On the other hand, an IEP modifies the curriculum.

Related services can be the following: transportation and developmental, corrective and supportive services that are required to assist a child with a disability in benefiting from special education. These related services include, but are not limited to speech-language therapy, audiology, psychological services, interpreting services, physical and occupational therapy, counseling services, orientation and mobility services, recreation and medical services for diagnostic or evaluation purposes.

FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education) Services are at no cost to the parent and may be provided in a variety of settings based on the student's needs and are provided in keeping with the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act in Hawaii's local implementing law relating to special education. 








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