In this episode of Straightforward Special Ed, Arla D. Cahill, Esq., Chair of Education Law at Mandelbaum Barrett PC, breaks down one of the most frequently asked questions by parents: What’s the difference between Section 504 and IDEA (the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)?
Arla explains how these two critical laws affect special education services, eligibility, and support in school, helping parents better understand the rights and resources available for their children.
Section 504 is a civil rights law ensuring students with disabilities receive equal access to education by prohibiting discriminatory practices. It mandates that schools provide accommodations to meet these students’ needs. In contrast, the IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) is an educational law requiring public schools to offer a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) specifically to students with educational disabilities, defined within certain categories. IDEA offers broader procedural protections and mandates special education tailored to the student’s needs, delivered in the least restrictive environment.
This is the first video in a new education law series answering the most common questions parents have about special education. Stay tuned for more episodes covering essential information parents need to know!