504 Plan and IDEA Information and Links

504 Plans and IDEA Information

Updated January 6, 2010

If you are a new teacher, you soon come to realize that teachers are constantly faced with decisions about educational plans for students with disabilities. The Rehabilitation Act of 1973 provides certain education remedies (504 plans) for such students. The concept and practice of "inclusion" has resulted in new challenges for teachers, administration, and parents to provide effective educational experiences for all students, regardless of their learning or physical disabilities. Perhaps one of the most misunderstood provisions of the law is that of the integrity of the curriculum for such students. There are, to be sure, many opinions and practices in the development and implementation of individual 504 plans. A building consensus supports the idea that the curriculum (what is intended that students learn) is not to be altered or modified for students who otherwise qualify for 504 plans. What this means, in a practical sense, is that teachers and administrators must provide instructional and environmental accommodations for these students, but that the curriculum is the same for all students.

The following links provide useful, and therefore practical information about 504 plans and IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) provisions. Many of them are links to pages of school systems that deal with these issues on a continuous basis. Their experiences give great insight into this area of teaching, learning, and the law. I have tried to exclude sites that are purely commercial or that offer specific products. If you have suggestions for other links, please send email to Dr. Robert Kizlik.

Protecting Students With Disabilities
Sample Section 504 Plan & Diabetes Medical Management Plan for a student with diabetes
The PARK Project
IEPs vs. 504 Plans
ADHD: A Path to Success
The National Information Center for Children and Youth with Disabilities
Questions and answers about Section 504 and ADHD
Glossary of Special Education Terms
Family Village School (IEP Links)

Additional sites are added as appropriate

Earn one of the most current and relevant degrees offered in the area of Education. Complete your degree in as little as 2 years. Click here for details.

"Anything not understood in more than one way is not understood at all."

Okay, now for something to read that might give you a chill or two....click here for my novel, What Waits Within

Online Education for Teachers - Advance Your Career