Dear Parents,
Dear Parents,
I hope this message finds you well. I want to take a moment to explain the differences between an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and a 504 Plan, two essential tools that help us ensure every child receives the support they need to succeed academically and personally.
**Individualized Education Program (IEP):**
An IEP is a tailored educational plan designed for students with specific learning disabilities or other disabilities that significantly impact their academic performance. The IEP is a legal document created collaboratively by a team, including teachers, special education professionals, and parents. It outlines the child's present level of academic achievement, measurable goals, special education services, and any necessary accommodations or modifications. Students eligible for an IEP require specialized instruction and may have services such as speech therapy, counseling, or adaptive physical education to address their unique needs. The IEP is reviewed and updated annually, ensuring that the child's educational plan evolves as their needs change. To receive an IEP, a student must be found eligible through a process where the teacher documents issues, an evaluation occurs, and the team determines services needed. If there is not a significant impact on their academic performance, an IEP would not be needed.
**504 Plan:**
On the other hand, a 504 Plan is designed for students who have disabilities that may not require specialized instruction but still need accommodations to access learning on an equal basis with their peers. This could include students with medical conditions, such as diabetes or severe allergies, or mental health conditions like anxiety disorders. A 504 Plan outlines specific accommodations and modifications, such as extended time on tests, preferential seating, or access to a school nurse, that help these students participate in the general education environment. Unlike an IEP, a 504 Plan does not involve specialized instruction.
In summary, an IEP is for students who require specialized instruction due to a significant impact on their academic performance, while a 504 Plan is for students who need accommodations to access the curriculum on an equal basis with their peers. Both plans are created with the best interests of the child in mind, aiming to provide a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
Please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns. We are here to work together to ensure your child's success and well-being at school.
Warm regards,
Melissa Terry
Best of the Nest
Each month at Six Mile Elementary, we focus on different character traits and talk about ways to show those traits to others. We discuss the trait in morning meeting in our classrooms. We spotlight the trait on the school news show. Mrs. Orr, our guidance counselor, goes into classrooms and does special lessons with the trait. At the end of each month, we have a Best of the Nest party to honor those students who "shine" in that area.
This month, our word is Integrity. Integrity is choosing to be truthful in all you say and do.
Absence Notes
If your student is absent, you have three days to send a note stating the reason for their absence before it is counted unexcused. You can send a handwritten note or you can email Stephanie Merck at stephaniemerck@pickens.k12.sc.us. You can also email your child's teacher.
When students have accumulated 3 absences in a row without a note, Mrs. Plyler will have to schedule a meeting for an Attendance Conference. Please make sure to get your note in so that this does not happen.
Six Mile Elementary
Email: teachersname@pickens.k12.sc.us
Website: www.pickens.k12.sc/sme
Location: 777 North Main Street, Six Mile, SC, USA
Phone: 864-397-2400
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sixmileelementaryschool
Twitter: @SME_Eagles
