A 504 isn't really special ed. Think of a 504 as a guarantee of access, such as the guarantee that the door of the school be big enough that a wheelchair fits through it. A 504 requires that accommodations be made for the disability, but does not require that any special education or related services be provided. Only the IEP offers those. If something costs money, it is likely to be offered only under an IEP. Schools have the discretion to offer things that cost money without the IEP, but they generally don't.
I hope the conversation goes well, Amy!
DeeDee
