Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 protects the civil rights of the disabled. Section 504 requires schools to provide disabled students with a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) through developing specific accommodations in an education program for the child. A 504 plan aims to level the playing field and prevent discrimination in an educational environment. An IEP is more detailed and contains modifications to how the child is taught and instructed and possibly modifications to the instructional content. If you are unsure if your child qualifies for an IEP, contact an education attorney to review your child’s situation.