What is Special Education?

Special Education

Special Education within MLSD is handled by our Student Services department. Within Student Services, we determine if students are eligible for Special Education and how we can best serve them.

 

IEP & 504 Plans

What a Guardian Needs to Know

504 Plans

What's a 504 Plan?

A 504 plan is an individualized plan developed for a student by the MLSD school psychologists.  

Who is eligible for a 504?

Students eligible for a 504 plan are determined by those on the MLSD Student Services team. On this team are our school psychologists who work together with the student, parents/guardians, and school staff to assess eligibility. Students with 504 plans require a/an accommodation(s) to be made at school due to a disability or struggles to be successful in school. 

Often, students with disabilities have 504 plans, but no diagnosis is needed to be eligible for one.

 

How long does it take to develop a 504 plan?

Typically, the process for assessing, developing, and receiving a 504 plan takes approximately 60 days. This, however, can vary depending on the student. A school psychologist with MLSD will assess your child, develop the plan, and manage the plan with you and your child. 

 

How long does a 504 plan last?

504 plans are good for 1 year, and then need to be renewed. After 3 years the student has to be reevaluated for eligibility before they can receive their 504 plan again.

 

Individualized Education Programs (IEPs)

What's an IEP?

An IEP modifies the learning environment and protects a student with disabilities. They are more comprehensive than a 504 plan, and often cover things like student transportation, state testing, and educational requirements to move from one grade to the next.