The Language of IEPs and 504s: Ban "As Needed"

“As needed” has no place in IEPs and 504 Plans.

“As needed” has no place in IEPs and 504 Plans.

Imagine injuring your leg. Now imagine the doctor asking your neighbor to hold onto your crutches and provide them to you as needed.

Your neighbor sees you hopping on one foot from the mailbox to the front door and determines 1) you’re exercising the injured leg and 2) you don't need the crutches. But you do. You're left struggling, unable to access the crutches when you need them most.

This scenario mirrors a common issue with accommodations in IEPs and 504 Plans, particularly when "as needed" is used. There’s no room for ambiguity. A child either needs accommodations or they don’t.