Understanding IEP/504 Plans: A Guide for Paraprofessionals
Children of all abilities deserve the opportunity to receive education. Providing equal opportunities for students with disabilities is not just a legal requirement. This responsibility falls on many educators including paraprofessionals who play a crucial role in supporting students in achieving their academic and developmental goals. One of the primary tools in ensuring this support is the development and use of Individualized Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plans. Both these plans provide an outline of specific goals and needs catered to the students disability. If you’re interested in becoming a paraprofessional in New York, here’s a comprehensive guide for paraprofessionals on understanding IEP/504 Plans and how to effectively implement them.
Understanding IEP/504 Plans
What is an IEP Plan?
IEP stands for “Individualized Education Plan”. Any student that has a diagnosis of one of the 13 disabilities listed in the IDEA in public schools is to receive IEP services. An IEP is a legally binding document that outlines the educational program and services a student with disabilities will receive. It is developed collaboratively by educators, parents, and often times includes input from the student. For a child to be eligible for the IEP program, they will need to have one or more of the 13 disabilities listed in IDEA. Below is the following list of disabilities:
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Deaf-Blindness
- Deafness
- Emotional Disturbance
- Hearing Impairment
- Intellectual Disability
- Multiple Disabilities
- Orthopedic Impairment
- Other Health Impairment
- Specific Learning Disability
- Traumatic Brain Injury
- Visual Impairment, including Blindness
What are the contents of IEPs?
Certain information must be included in IEP plans by law. The Individualized Education Plans are designed to meet the students’ needs. In summary, the information that is included in every IEP plan is:
- Present level of performance
Every IEP must state the students’ current level of academic and functional performance based on an evaluation. This evaluation is based off of classroom tests and assignments, observations made by parents, teachers, related service providers, and other educators.
- Annual goals
After outlining the present level of performance, the annual goals that are developed are goals that can be reasonably accomplished within a year. The annual goals are broken down into short-term objectives or benchmarks and include both academic and functional goals. The goals must be measurable in order to determine if the student has achieved these goals.
- Special education and related services
After developing the students annual goals, next is the statement of the individualized services and related services the student requires in order to obtain the annual goals.
- Participation with nondisabled children
This section of the IEP includes an explanation, if any, to which the child will not participate with nondisabled children in the regular class including any other activities.
- Participation in state and district-wide tests
The IEP must state which tests aren’t appropriate for the child, why the test isn’t appropriate, and what modifications are needed for other tests.
- Dates and places
IEPs must record when services will begin, how often they will be provided, how long they will last, and where they will be provided.
- Transition service needs
Beginning at age 14, there is mandatory inclusion of a student’s transition service needs in the IEP.
- Needed transition services
At age 16, measurable transition goals based on assessment of the learner’s interests and training/support needs.
- Age of majority
Before the child reaches the age of majority, the IEP must include a statement that the student has been told of any rights that will transfer to them at the age of majority.
- Measuring progress
The IEP must state how the child is progressing and how it will be communicated to the parents.
Understanding 504 Plans
What is a 504 Plan?
504 Plans are similar to IEPs. A 504 Plan is a way for schools to provide support for students with a disability in order to learn in a regular classroom. The 504 Plan was formed due to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act. In order for a student to be eligible for the 504 plan they must be diagnosed with any type of disability that interferes with the ability to learn in a general education classroom. This includes disabilities that limit daily life activities such as seeing, self-care, learning, breathing, walking, or speaking. Examples of disabilities to be qualified for 504 plans are those with:
- ADHD
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
- Epilepsy
- Diabetes
- Vision or hearing impairments
- Chronic health conditions
- Mental health conditions
What’s included in the 504 Plan?
The 504 Plan is based on the students strengths and needs. Typically, 504 Plans are only a page and a half long, although it clearly depends on the needs of the individual student. Examples of 504 accommodations include:
- Use of speech-to-text for writing
- Extended testing time
- Enlarged type or directions for tests read aloud
- Use of computer or note taker for class notes or classwork
- Preferential seating in class
- Breaks for focus or food
- A set time and location for taking medication
- Use of elevator to travel throughout the building
- Modified textbooks
- Occupational therapy or physical therapy
Conclusion
Understanding IEP/504 Plans and effectively implementing them are crucial for paraprofessionals working with students with disabilities. By familiarizing themselves with these plans, collaborating closely with educators, and providing personalized support, paraprofessionals can significantly impact the educational journey and overall development of these students. This role requires empathy, patience, and commitment to ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive in an inclusive education environment. Being well versed in both of these plans will prepare you for your next paraprofessional interview. If you’re looking for a Paraprofessional job in New York, take a look at our current open jobs.