What’s the difference between Special Education and a Section 504?

Section 504 is a civil rights law designed to protect individuals with disabilities.  It’s intended to allow students supports or accommodations necessary for them to access their education. A Section 504 Plan is developed much like an IEP, but without specially designed instruction. Generally, most students on a Section 504 plan are able to fully participate in general education.

Typically, an IEP (individual education plan) is designed for students with disabilities whose disability prevent them from accessing general education without specific interventions, such as specially designed instruction, related services and supplementary aids and services.

For more information, contact Dana Pedersen at pedersen_dana@silverfalls.k12.or.us.