IEPs, 504s, and advocating at school: A parent’s guide

When your child struggles with reading, navigating school support systems can feel overwhelming. Many parents hear terms like IEP and 504 Plan tossed around but aren’t quite sure what they mean—or what’s best for their child.

At Ravinia Reading Center, we work with families every day who are trying to make sense of how the school system can support a child with dyslexia or other reading impairments. In this post, we’ll walk you through the basics of IEPs and 504 Plans, how to know which your child may need, and how to be the best advocate for their success.

What’s the difference between an IEP and a 504 Plan?

Both IEPs and 504 Plans are designed to support students with learning differences. The main difference lies in what they provide and how eligibility is determined.

IEP (Individualized Education Program)

An IEP is a formal, legally binding document created under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). It’s tailored to meet the unique educational needs of a child with a qualifying disability—like dyslexia.

An IEP includes:

• Measurable learning goals

• Specific services (like specialized reading instruction)

• Accommodations and modifications

• A team of professionals who meet regularly to monitor progress

Children must go through formal evaluation and meet specific criteria to qualify for an IEP. Dyslexia is often included under the category of Specific Learning Disability (SLD).

Learn more about IDEA and IEPs here: U.S. Department of Education: IDEA

504 Plan

A 504 Plan is part of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. It ensures that students with disabilities have equal access to education, but it doesn’t typically include specialized instruction—just accommodations to help students function in the classroom.

Examples of 504 accommodations:

• Extra time on tests

• Access to audiobooks or reading software

• Preferential seating or quiet testing locations

504 Plans are generally easier to qualify for, but they don’t come with the same level of structured support as an IEP.

Which One Does My Child Need?

The answer depends on the severity and impact of your child’s reading challenges. If your child has dyslexia and needs specialized instruction to learn to read, an IEP is likely the more appropriate choice. If they’re able to learn with classroom accommodations but need a little extra support to succeed, a 504 Plan might suffice.

The best way to decide is to pursue formal evaluation through your school district or a private educational specialist. Ravinia Reading Center can also help guide families through this process and refer you to trusted professionals for diagnosis.

How to Advocate for Your Child

Even once you understand the options, it’s easy to feel intimidated by school meetings and documentation. Here are some tips to help you feel empowered:

• Know your rights. You have the right to request an evaluation and to participate fully in the decision-making process. Learn more here: Wrightslaw: Special Education Law & Advocacy

• Be proactive. Don’t wait for the school to raise concerns. If your child is struggling, ask for a meeting, bring your observations, and request formal assessments.

• Take notes. Keep a folder with test results, report cards, teacher notes, and your own observations.

• Bring a support person. Whether it’s a spouse, friend, or advocate, having another adult at meetings can help you feel more confident and catch important details.

• Ask questions. If something isn’t clear, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. You are your child’s best advocate.

You’re Not Alone

Remember—many families have walked this path, and you don’t have to figure it all out alone. At Ravinia Reading Center, we provide not only targeted reading intervention, but also support for families navigating the complex world of educational advocacy.

We’re here to help you and your child find a path forward—one that’s rooted in understanding, evidence-based practice, and hope.