504 vs IEP: What Are They and Which One Do I Need?

If your child’s migraine attacks are interfering with their ability to attend and succeed in school, you are entitled to request accommodations from your school.

Trying to navigate this can be overwhelming. So let’s do our best to break it down as simply as we can.

What is a 504 Plan?

Congress passed the U.S. Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and Section 504 states any organization that receives federal money, including schools,cannot discriminate against anyone with disabilities.

This means any student with a disability can get the accommodations they need. For a child with migraine, this may mean they can have a water bottle in class, more time to take tests due to brain fog, are allowed to wear sunglasses or migraine glasses, etc. Usually there is a team at the school that will work with the parents to decide what accommodations will be listed on the student’s 504 Plan.

What is an IEP?

IEP stands for “individualized education program.” An IEP is more detailed than a 504 plan and includes goals and outcomes for the student. These documents will be reevaluated regularly based on the shifting needs of the student. IEPs are very common in special education.

What is the difference?

A 504 levels the playing field for students with migraine. A 504 ensures your child has the classroom experience they need to have the same opportunities as other students.

An IEP provides wider educational opportunities such as the ability to learn from home or special materials geared toward the student.

Which accommodation is best for my child?

The most severe cases of migraine may require an IEP. If your child cannot attend school on a regular basis and needs a more flexible school day with altered materials, you should look into an IEP.

For many students, a 504 will be the perfect fit. This is about finding the accommodations your child needs to get the most out of their school day. Migraine at School has a list of accommodations under their step by step guide on the parent page of their website. If you do not see what you need on the list, that is ok, you can still ask.

Where do I even start?

For a 504 plan, follow these steps and always keep in mind that you know what your child needs. Be fierce and advocate for your child.

1. Get a letter from your child’s health care provider stating the need for a 504 plan. You can use the Migraine at School sample letter.
2. Figure out who at your school you need to talk to. It may be on the website. You can ask the principal directly who you need to contact to start the process.
3. Within 30 days, the school must hold a 504 meeting and develop the plan.
4. Make sure you have your list of requested accommodations to the 504 meeting. Back this up by having it signed by your child’s healthcare provider.
5. Each year, the plan will be evaluated. Be ready to back up your case.
6. AND please note, this plan can follow your child as they move on to college, likely through the school’s disability center.

Migraine at School and The U.S. Pain Foundation creates a 504 vs IEP infographic you can download.