Advocate like an Advocate:
Understanding IEPs and
Section 504 Plans

Valerie Pomeroy, MEd

Tuesday
October 13, 2026
7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

The Westport Library
Room 210
20 Jesup Road
Westport

Navigating special education can be overwhelming: What is the difference between a 504 Plan and an IEP? How do I know my child is making progress? What is the difference between a goal and an objective? What do all these acronyms mean?

Educational advocate Valerie Pomeroy, MEd, will guide you through the basics of IEPs and 504 Plans, giving you the knowledge and confidence to understand your child’s program and advocate effectively.

Topics will include:

  • IEPs vs. 504 Plans: What’s the difference?
  • Eligibility: Who qualifies?
  • Understanding the key components of an IEP;
  • Present Levels of Performance;
  • Annual Goals and Objectives;
  • Specialized Instruction;
  • Accommodations vs. Modifications; and
  • Preparing for IEP and 504 Plan meetings—and following up afterward.

This engaging and interactive presentation will provide opportunities for questions, discussion, and shared experiences. You will leave with practical tools and greater self-assurance to participate meaningfully in the process and become a stronger advocate for your child.

View the Presentation Slides (PDF format)

More About Valerie Pomeroy

Presented by SPED*NET in partnership with Westport Special Education Empowerment Network (SEEN)

SPED*NET does not provide legal advice or medical/psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The material in this presentation is provided for educational purposes only.

Advocate like an Advocate:
Understanding IEPs and
Section 504 Plans

Valerie Pomeroy, MEd

Tuesday
October 13, 2026
7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

The Westport Library
Room 210
20 Jesup Road
Westport

Navigating special education can be overwhelming: What is the difference between a 504 Plan and an IEP? How do I know my child is making progress? What is the difference between a goal and an objective? What do all these acronyms mean?

Educational advocate Valerie Pomeroy, MEd, will guide you through the basics of IEPs and 504 Plans, giving you the knowledge and confidence to understand your child’s program and advocate effectively.

Topics will include:

  • IEPs vs. 504 Plans: What’s the difference?
  • Eligibility: Who qualifies?
  • Understanding the key components of an IEP;
  • Present Levels of Performance;
  • Annual Goals and Objectives;
  • Specialized Instruction;
  • Accommodations vs. Modifications; and
  • Preparing for IEP and 504 Plan meetings—and following up afterward.

This engaging and interactive presentation will provide opportunities for questions, discussion, and shared experiences. You will leave with practical tools and greater self-assurance to participate meaningfully in the process and become a stronger advocate for your child.

View the Presentation Slides (PDF format)

More About Valerie Pomeroy

Presented by SPED*NET in partnership with Westport Special Education Empowerment Network (SEEN)

SPED*NET does not provide legal advice or medical/psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The material in this presentation is provided for educational purposes only.

Advocate like an Advocate:
Understanding IEPs and
Section 504 Plans

Valerie Pomeroy, MEd

Tuesday
October 13, 2026
7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.

The Westport Library
Room 210
20 Jesup Road
Westport

Navigating special education can be overwhelming: What is the difference between a 504 Plan and an IEP? How do I know my child is making progress? What is the difference between a goal and an objective? What do all these acronyms mean?

Educational advocate Valerie Pomeroy, MEd, will guide you through the basics of IEPs and 504 Plans, giving you the knowledge and confidence to understand your child’s program and advocate effectively.

Topics will include:

  • IEPs vs. 504 Plans: What’s the difference?
  • Eligibility: Who qualifies?
  • Understanding the key components of an IEP;
  • Present Levels of Performance;
  • Annual Goals and Objectives;
  • Specialized Instruction;
  • Accommodations vs. Modifications; and
  • Preparing for IEP and 504 Plan meetings—and following up afterward.

This engaging and interactive presentation will provide opportunities for questions, discussion, and shared experiences. You will leave with practical tools and greater self-assurance to participate meaningfully in the process and become a stronger advocate for your child.

View the Presentation Slides (PDF format)

More About Valerie Pomeroy

Presented by SPED*NET in partnership with Westport Special Education Empowerment Network (SEEN)

SPED*NET does not provide legal advice or medical/psychological advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The material in this presentation is provided for educational purposes only.