Wrightslaw
The Special Ed Advocate Newsletter

Dear &subscriber;

Does a child have to fail before the school can evaluate for special education services?

How are 504 Plans different from IEPs? Who is eligible for protections under Section 504, but not under IDEA?

In this issue of The Special Ed Advocate, we look at Section 504 and IDEA, differences between the two laws, who is eligible under the two laws, and tell you about a FREE Boot Camp. Download this issue.

We are experimenting with a new format for the newsletter. If you have thoughts or feedback, please drop us a line.

Subscribers on November 14, 2005: 47,434

Breaking News! The U. S. Supreme Court issued a decision in Schaffer v. Weast this morning. We will send out an Alert about the decision later today.

---

1. Does a Child Have to Fail Before the School Can Evaluate? How are 504 Plans Different from IEPs?

"My daughter has a 504 plan. On her last progress report, she received two F's. When I asked that she receive more help, the principal said she has to fail on her report card before she can request testing."

"Bottom line: My child is failing. The school won't evaluate her and won't consider an IEP. What can I do?"

Is it true that a child has to fail before the school can evaluate? What are the differences between Section 504 Plans and IEPs? What strategies can a parent use to get a better program? How can you deal with school gatekeepers?

In Child with 504 Plan Is Failing, School Won't Evaluate or Consider an IEP, you learn about rights and responsibilities under Section 504 and IDEA. For a Wrightslaw Game Plan to get services while maintaining a healthy working relationship with school personnel, read Child with 504 Plan Is Failing, School Won't Evaluate or Consider an IEP.

Learn more advocacy strategies.

---

2. Who is Eligible for Protections Under Section 504 - But Not Under IDEA?

"Who is protected under Section 504, but not under IDEA? A student with AIDS? A student with ADD? A student with chronic asthma?"

What do you think? For our answer, read Who is Eligible for Protections Under Section 504 - But Not Under IDEA?

Learn more about Section 504 and protection from discrimination.