Educational Terms
504 Plan
A legal plan under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act that provides accommodations for students with disabilities in public schools to ensure equal access to education. Unlike an IEP, it does not require specialized instruction.
Accommodations
Changes to the learning environment, materials, or teaching methods that help a student access the curriculum without altering learning expectations (e.g., extra time on tests, preferential seating, visual schedules).
Adaptive Skills
Daily living skills that help students function independently, including self-care, social interactions, and practical life skills.
Assessment
The process of evaluating a student’s strengths, challenges, and needs in areas like academics, behavior, and communication, often used to develop an IEP or 504 Plan.
Assistive Technology (AT)
Any device, tool, or software that helps a student with disabilities access learning, such as AAC devices, text-to-speech software, or noise-canceling headphones.
Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP)
A structured plan developed to address challenging behaviors by identifying triggers and providing strategies to teach alternative skills and reinforce positive behaviors.
Early Intervention (EI)
Services for children from birth to age 3 that focus on developmental support, including speech, occupational, and physical therapy, to help address delays and challenges early.
Extended School Year (ESY)
Special education services are provided beyond the regular school year (often in summer) for students who would regress significantly without continued support.
Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE)
A legal right under IDEA that ensures all students with disabilities receive an education at no cost to families, tailored to their individual needs.
Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA)
A process used to identify the cause of challenging behaviors in order to create an effective intervention plan, often leading to a BIP.
General Education Curriculum
The standard curriculum taught in schools, which students with IEPs and 504 Plans may access with accommodations or modifications.
Inclusion
The practice of educating students with disabilities in general education classrooms, with appropriate support, promotes social and academic integration.
Individualized Eduction Program (IEP)
A legal document under IDEA that outlines special education services, goals, accommodations, and supports for a student with disabilities. It is reviewed annually.
Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP)
A written plan for early intervention services (birth to age 3) that outlines developmental goals and therapy services for a child and family.
Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
A federal law that ensures students with disabilities receive a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). It mandates special education services, Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), and procedural safeguards to support the rights of students with disabilities and their families.
Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)
A key principle in special education states that students with disabilities should learn alongside their peers in the general education setting as much as possible, with necessary supports.
Modifications
Changes that alter the curriculum or learning expectations for a student (e.g., reducing the number of test questions, simplified assignments). This differs from accommodations, which adjust how a student learns rather than what they learn.
Notice of Recommended Education Placement (NOREP)
A NOREP is a formal document provided to parents by the school district that outlines proposed changes to a child’s educational placement or services under their IEP (Individualized Education Program). Parents must review, approve, or dispute the recommendations before changes can take effect. This document ensures that families have a voice in the special education process.
Occupational Therapy (OT)
A type of therapy that helps students develop fine motor skills, sensory processing, and life skills needed for school and daily life.
Paraprofessional (Para or Aide)
A trained school staff member who supports students with disabilities by assisting with academics, behavior, and personal care under a teacher’s guidance.
Prior Written Notice (PWN)
A document that schools must provide before making any changes to a child’s IEP or services, explaining the reasons for the decision and parents’ rights.
Self-Contained Classroom
A special education classroom designed for students who need more individualized support than can be provided in a general education setting.
Speech-Language Therapy (SLT or SLP)
Therapy that helps students develop speech, communication, and social language skills, often provided as part of an IEP.
Transition Plan
A required section of an IEP starting at age 14-16 that outlines goals and services to help a student transition to adulthood, including higher education, employment, and independent living.