Case Conference (ACR), IEP & 504

Defining Common Terms:

Case Conference or ACR (Annual Case Review): The Case Conference is a meeting where school personnel, parents and sometimes students meet to discuss what, if any modifications should be made to help a student with intelectual and / or physical disabilities reach their potential. If an IEP is deemed necessary, there will be an Annual Case Review (ACR) to update / make changes to the IEP as deemed necessary. Click here for a sample of the order in which a case conference will be conducted

Individualized Education Program (IEP):  An IEP is a written statement and plan of action for specialized instruction and accomodations for a child with a disability that is developed, reviewed, and revised in a meeting in keeping with certain requirements of law and regulations. These are created and modified during Case Conferences with the families. A student must meet the requirements for one or more of the 13 disability categories listed in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, or IDEA. The disability must have an adverse or negative impact on how the student is doing in school. The student must also need specialized instruction to make progress in general education.

504 Plan: The 504 Plan is a plan developed to ensure that a child who has a disability identified under the law and is attending an elementary or secondary educational institution receives accommodations that will ensure their academic success and access to the learning environment. A student must have a disability that impacts one or more major life activities, such as reading or paying attention. Because IEPs have more requirements, a student who doesn’t qualify for an IEP might still be able to get a 504 plan. Click Here for more information on 504 Plans