504 & IEP Guidance

This website has text to speech.

Navigating the school system can feel overwhelming, especially when your child struggles with reading, writing, or spelling.

We don’t just support students, we also consult with families, offering practical tips and what questions to ask for 504 Plans and IEPs (Individualized Education Programs).

Why 504 Plans and IEPs Matter

  • 504 Plans provide accommodations so students with learning differences can access the general education curriculum.

  • IEPs go further, offering specially designed instruction and measurable goals for students who qualify for special education.

These supports ensure your child has equal access to learning and the tools needed to succeed in the classroom.

How ETC Helps Families

We know the system — and we know how to help. Families across Kansas City, Parkville, Liberty, and Overland Park trust us to:

    • Review school documents and reports with you. 
    • Help you understand the difference between accommodations and services.
    • Prepare you for school meetings so you can advocate more effectively. 
    • Provide documentation from our Skills Assessments to support requests. 
    • Offer practical recommendations based on your child’s needs.

Common Accommodations for Students with Dyslexia

Some of the accommodations we’ve helped families secure include:

    • Extended time on tests and assignments
    • Access to audiobooks or text-to-speech tools
    • Reduced homework load or alternate assignments
    • Copies of class notes
    • Quiet testing environments
    • Use of assistive technology

Parent Support You Can Trust

Our Director, Cathy Denesia, has walked this path personally. As both a parent of children with dyslexia and a dyslexia advocate, she has:

  • Supported families for over a decade in securing accommodations

  • Spoken before the Kansas Board of Education on dyslexia policies

  • Helped countless parents feel more confident and informed in school meetings

Parents often tell us that having ETC’s guidance gave them the confidence and knowledge they needed to stand up for their child.

The ETC Difference

  • We understand both sides: the school system and the family’s perspective.

  • Our guidance is based on experience, advocacy, and expertise.

  • You’re never alone — we walk with you every step of the way.

Ready to learn more? Schedule a Skills Assessment today. Your child’s assessment includes a comprehensive written report you can use when working with schools to secure 504 or IEP accommodations.