Spring IEP season is under way. We can help you be
prepared for your meeting with our document organization session or IEP prep/review consultation. Contact us at [email protected] to schedule an appointment or to find out more.
I hope you find this edition of On the CASE helpful.
Cari Levin
Founding Executive Director
Special Education Advocate
Evanston CASE
Advocacy Tip
Should I ask for a 504 or an IEP?
This Month's Advocacy Tip From Jill Calian
"What Do I Do When..." My child needs help at school and I don't know whether to ask for a "504 Plan" or an "IEP."
Parents sometimes ask which is better -- a 504 Plan which is named for section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, or an IEP which is an Individualized Educational Plan available under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (I.D.E.A.)? The answer is ... it depends on your child's needs. The criteria for and supports available under a 504 Plan are not the same as for an IEP.
The two most important advocacy tips on this topic are:
1. Understand how your child's challenges impact them in the learning environment. Access to education is the standard for a 504 Plan.
2. If you feel your child needs an IEP -- maybe their 504 Plan hasn't sufficiently supported them, or school has agreed to the 504 as a way to provide services just short of special education -- get some outside information to bring to the table.
Something new for them to consider. From a therapist, neuropsychologist, etc.
Call CASE if you have questions. (847) 556-8676
NEW! Parent Connections Support Group
COFFEE (BYOC) meeting starting next week!
Feeling isolated and overwhelmed? Do you have special education related questions? Want to meet other parents who "get it"?
Join us for our free Parent Connections Support Groups. For parents/caregivers only.
NEW! COFFEE GROUP (BYOC)
Wednesday, April 11th
9:30 am to 11:00 am
BROWN BAG LUNCH GROUP
Thursday, April 12th
11:30 am - 1:00 pm
Coffee and Lunch groups meet at the Evanston CASE offices, 1940 Sherman Ave. Suite A in Evanston.
Hope you can join us!
Don't miss this wonderful event!
CASE Presents:
Swim Team Film Event
Wednesday, April 25th
Summer Literacy Camp
Redwood Literacy is offering a summer literacy camp
"Join us for a multi-sensory, small-group, 6-week camp experience. Built for any 1st - 8th grade student who has dyslexia, dysgraphia, or general literacy struggles that negatively impact their learning or self-confidence."
