Key Terminology in Special Education: A Parent’s Guide

Understanding the terminology in special education can be confusing. To support your journey, we’ve broken down key acronyms and terms, providing a handy reference point for the future.

Essential Acronyms and Terms

IEP (Individualized Education Plan/Program)

The IEP is your child’s special education document. It details all the components of your child’s needs, instruction, supports, and the services provided by the district, proposed annually.

FAPE (Free and Appropriate Public Education)

FAPE encompasses special education services.

 • Free: Education services are provided at no cost to the family.

 • Appropriate: Services meet your child’s unique needs.

 • Public: Supervised by the public school system, though private schooling can sometimes be covered by the district.

 • Education: Includes the services the IEP team determined meet your child’s needs.

IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities Education Act)

This 1990 American legislation ensures that all students with disabilities receive a Free and Appropriate Public Education.

LRE (Least Restrictive Environment)

LRE refers to the classroom environment that allows the child to be in the general education classroom to the maximum extent appropriate, as decided by the IEP team.

ESY (Extended School Year)

ESY is the period over the summer when class is still in session. Many districts use ESY to prevent regression in skills after school breaks. If your child is eligible, ask to see the data supporting this.

DRDP (Desired Results Developmental Profile)

A checklist assessment for preschool-age children in California. It spans from infant to kindergarten, covering social-emotional, cognitive, physical development, and self-help skills. Accommodations during the assessment should be discussed at the IEP meeting.

Accommodations and Modifications

Understanding the difference between accommodations and modifications is crucial. Accommodations are supports that are added to your child’s day to day education whereas modifications are adjustments to the curriculum they are learning.

 • Accommodations: Supports like headphones, visual cues, and differential seating added to daily education.

 • Modifications: Adjustments to the curriculum, such as lessened homework problems or alternate books.

With these definitions, you’ll navigate special education terminology with confidence. Keep this guide handy as a reference throughout your child’s educational journey. And let us know if there's some additional terminology you would love for us to explore in the future.