Good luck.

Allan Roth

Thank you. I will go ahead and make a written request stating my concerns for an IEP.

A 504 plan provides accommodations only and potential access for services available on your son's campus, if he has a disability that "substantially" impacts his educational program.

An IEP provides both accommodations and modifications and the provision of all needed services, even if they are/were not available on your son's campus, if he has a disability that "significantly" impacts his educational program. Further, an IEP has measurable and observable goals and objectives and is monitored by a special education case manager. If the needed services are not available on your son's campus, the district will need to either bring the services to your son or transport your son to the services, at their discretion. So, be careful what you ask for, as there may be unintended consequences.

To get an IEP evaluation, you need to make a written (email is best with a CC to yourself, for proof of when it was sent and to whom) request that states all areas of concerns and requests that your son be assessed in all areas of suspected disability. If you know of some specific challenges, state them. If you know of some specific services you think he might need (e.g. Speech, OT, mental health therapy, etc.) state that, too.

Best wishes,

Allan Roth, Alliance Resources and Associates, Inc.