Special Education and 504: Terms You May Hear

Mission Statement

The Special Services team of Wauconda CUSD 118 fosters student learning  for all students through ongoing formative assessment and differentiated instruction in an environment which empowers our diverse student population to succeed with their educational goals in the least restrictive environment.  Teams support student 504 and Special Education needs with a focus on flexible individualized supports, with measurable results.

504 Plan:  If it is determined that your child is eligible for 504 Plan then a written plan describing the accommodations and supplementary supports will be created.  This written document describes your child and what you and the school will do to give your child the extra help and attention they need.   

Annual Goals:  Measurable statements of desired progress your child will make in one year. These goals are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and time sensitive.

Behavioral Intervention/Management Plan (BIP):  A written plan developed as part of the IEP targeting specific behavioral improvement.  It is based on a functional analysis of the student’s behavior, BIPs describe interventions being used, methods of evaluation, and provisions for coordinating with the home.

Case Study or 504 Evaluations:  Case Study or 504 Evaluations are a process to assess or review records to determine if a child with a disability is eligible for 504 Protection, a 504 Plan and/or an IEP.

Individualized Educational Program (IEP):  If it is determined that your child is eligible for Special Education Services, a written plan describing the provision of special education and related services for a student with a disability is developed.  This written document describes your child and what you and the school will do to give your child the extra help and attention they need.      

Least Restrictive Environment (LRE):  Educating all students with disabilities to the maximum extent possible within the general education setting with their typical peers.

Related Services:  Developmental, corrective and other supportive services as required to assist a child with a disability to benefit from Special Education, including Speech/Language Pathology, audiology services, counseling services, transportation, etc.

Objectives: Regularly scheduled benchmarks that your child must learn or accomplish in order to reach the annual goals.

Placement Options: The identification of where Special Education services will be located including the instructional program and/or related services for a student.