09/13/2026
SPECIAL EDUCATION ACRONYMS EVERY PARENT/ CAREGIVER SHOULD KNOW
The special education world can feel like an entirely different language. Here’s a simple cheat sheet:
🔹 IDEA — Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
The federal special education law.
🔹 IEP — Individualized Education Program
A legally binding plan outlining a student’s services, supports, accommodations and goals.
🔹 504 Plan — A plan providing accommodations and equal access for a student with a disability.
🔹 FAPE — Free Appropriate Public Education
Eligible students with disabilities are entitled to an appropriate public education at no cost.
🔹 LRE — Least Restrictive Environment
Students should learn alongside nondisabled peers as much as appropriate for their individual needs.
🔹 ESE — Exceptional Student Education
The term commonly used for special education in Florida.
🔹 PWN — Prior Written Notice
The school’s written explanation of what it proposes or refuses to do—and why.
🔹 FBA — Functional Behavioral Assessment
An evaluation used to understand why a behavior is occurring.
🔹 BIP — Behavior Intervention Plan
A written plan for preventing and responding to behaviors using appropriate supports.
🔹 AAC — Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Tools that help individuals communicate, including picture boards and speech-generating devices.
🔹 AT — Assistive Technology
Devices or services that help a student access learning.
🔹 SLP — Speech-Language Pathologist
🔹 OT — Occupational Therapy
🔹 PT — Physical Therapy
🔹 ESY — Extended School Year
Special education services provided beyond the regular school year when a student qualifies.
🔹 IEE — Independent Educational Evaluation
An evaluation completed by a qualified professional outside the school district.
🔹 MDR — Manifestation Determination Review
A meeting to determine whether disciplinary behavior was connected to the student’s disability or the school’s failure to implement the IEP.
Parents, you cannot advocate for what you do not understand. Learn the language, ask questions and never be afraid to request everything in writing.
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