Assignment #1

Comparison of Section 504 (accommodations) and IDEA (IEPs)

Heather Schutte
College of Education and Human Development, University of Minnesota
OLPD 5384: Special Education Law for Leaders
Dr. Sonenblum
June 23, 2021
 Comparison Chart: IDEA and Section 504
IDEA
PURPOSE To ensure that all students with
disabilities receive a free
appropriate public education
specifically designed to meet their
unique needs.
WHO IS PROTECTED? Categorical approach
Thirteen disability categories
Disability must adversely impact
educational performance
EVALUATION Determination is made on an
individual basis by the
multidisciplinary team in
accordance with guidelines set forth
in the law.
Protection in evaluation procedures
Requires evaluation of progress
toward IEP goals annually and
reevaluation at least every three
years
DECISION-MAKING Requires consent prior to initial
evaluation and placement
PROCEDURAL SAFEGUARDS
Comprehensive and detailed notice
requirements
Evaluation and placement decisions
have to be made by a
multidisciplinary team
FUNDING Provides for federal funding to
assist in the education of students
with disabilities (substantive
requirements attached to funding)
DOCUMENTATION Requires an individualized
education program (IEP)
Section 504
Civil rights law
Prohibits discrimination on the
basis of disability in any program
receiving federal funds.
Requires reasonable
accommodations to ensure
nondiscrimination
Functional approach
Students having a physical or
mental impairment that:
 Substantially limits a
major life function
 Have a record of such an
impairment
 Are regarded as having
such an impairment
Protects students in general and
special education
Requires periodic reevaluation
Reevaluation is required before a
significant change in placement
Does not require consent; requires
notice only
General notice requirements
Grievance procedure
Impartial due process hearing
No federal funding
Written education plan