Glossary

Quick definitions for words that show up in school meetings, clinics, and forms. If two people use the same acronym differently, ask them to say the full phrase and what they mean in your child’s file.

ABA: Applied behavior analysis—a wide field; practices and ethics vary. Ask who supervises, goals, data, and consent.
ABLE account: Tax-advantaged savings for eligible people disabled before a set age—qualified expenses only, with program rules.
Accommodations: Changes that help access (noise reduction, extra time). Different from modifying curriculum.
DSP: Direct support professional—may provide in-home or community support depending on funding.
FAPE: Free appropriate public education—IDEA’s core promise for eligible students.
HCBS: Home- and community-based services—Medicaid services delivered outside institutions when eligible.
IDEA: Individuals with Disabilities Education Act—U.S. special education law.
IEP: Individualized Education Program—written plan for students who qualify for special education.
LRE: Least restrictive environment—IDEA prefers inclusion with peers to the maximum appropriate extent.
Medicaid waiver: Optional state programs that can fund community services; waitlists are common.
OT: Occupational therapy—often supports daily living, sensory strategies, and motor skills.
PT: Physical therapy—often supports mobility and strength.
Prior written notice: School’s written explanation when proposing or refusing certain changes—procedural safeguard under IDEA.
504 plan: Plan under Section 504 for disability accommodations; different criteria than an IEP.
SLP: Speech-language pathologist—supports communication, feeding, and social language as appropriate.
SSI: Supplemental Security Income—needs-based cash benefit with strict financial rules.
VR: Vocational rehabilitation—state services that can help with work goals for eligible people.

Glossary

Primary sources to verify details