IEP and Special Education Terms

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Accommodation

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A change to or in a student’s learning environment to help them learn and show what they’ve learned by removing barriers. For example, allowing extra time for tests.

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Annual Goals

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Academic and functional skills the IEP team expects a student to achieve by the end of a school year. Goals should be realistic, measurable, and often written as SMART goals.

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Assistive Technology (AT)

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Devices, equipment, or software that help students learn, communicate, and function better in school, ranging from simple tools to high-tech software.

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Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP)

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A plan to proactively teach and reinforce positive behavior, using strategies to prevent and address disruptive behavior. Often part of an IEP.

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Disability

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A condition recognized by law. To qualify for an IEP, a student must have a disability under one of the 13 categories in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act.

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Extended School Year Services (ESY)

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Special education services provided outside the regular school year, such as during summer or extended breaks.

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General Education Curriculum

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The knowledge and skills all students in a state are expected to master, varying from state to state.

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Individualized Education Program (IEP)

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A program outlining special education instruction, supports, and services needed for a student to progress and thrive in school.

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Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)

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A federal law guaranteeing all students with disabilities access to a free, appropriate public education.

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Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)

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The requirement that students with disabilities be taught as much as possible in the same setting as peers without disabilities.