Workshop in Miami Lakes explains the difference between IEPs and Section 504 plans

Ivan, a presenter working with CARD, opened the workshop by describing the distinct legal roles of an IEP and a Section 504 plan and why parents should understand both. He said the session was “not a substitution for the workshops that parent to parent have,” positioning the presentation as an entry point for families seeking deeper training. Ivan emphasized that IEPs are individualized legal plans carrying more detailed services and monitoring than Section 504 accommodations.

Ivan walked parents through the start of the process: referral or school-initiated evaluation, classroom adjustments, then formal testing. He noted a common frustration: “the district doesn’t give diagnosis. They just give eligibilities,” meaning school assessments determine eligibility for school services rather than providing clinical diagnoses parents might use for insurance. For cases where evaluations are delayed, Ivan recommended pursuing interim options and making clear written requests to schools.