An IEP -- Individualized Education Program -- is an overall approach to meeting the needs of a child with a disability, as required by IDEA (2004). The IEP has become the center point of special education. Developed via a team process, many stakeholders, including parents, have a role in the determination of content and services
A 504 plan is a blueprint for how schools will support a student with a disability and remove barriers to learning. The goal is to provide the student equal access at school. In contrast, IEP stands for Individual Education Program and centers around academic achievement and determining whether a student qualifies for special education services.
Specially Designed Instruction (SDI) is a legal requirement found in the IDEA. SDI requires that special education students receive "specially designed instruction" as a part of their educational program. The general idea is that children with disabilities need unique and customized educational interventions that address their specific deficits. The definition of SDI is as follows:
