Should I request an IEP first or 504 plan first?

While you may be certain that a 504 plan is the best choice for your child, one important point to highlight: even if your goal is a 504 plan for your child, experts recommend starting with/requesting a special education assessment (also called an IEP assessment under IDEA) even if you think your child won’t qualify for an IEP. That’s because IDEA has specific timelines and procedural requirements that ensure your child’s needs are properly assessed. Education Advocate Sandy Shove explains, “If you haven’t yet tested and assessed, how do you know if they’re going to qualify [for an IEP or not]?. Nobody can tell by looking at you how your disability is interacting with you and these demands. We have to first evaluate that, right? So I always, always, always start with the evaluation under IDEA.”

For more information, see our full article How to Get a 504 Plan at School For Your Child.