Acronyms decoded

A therapy approach based on the science of learning and behavior, commonly used with children with autism. Focuses on reinforcing positive behaviors and reducing harmful ones.

Federal civil rights law prohibiting discrimination against people with disabilities. Applies to employment, public accommodations, and more — but IDEA (not ADA) governs special education.

A specially designed physical education program for students with disabilities who cannot safely or successfully participate in general PE.

Any device or service that helps a student with a disability function more effectively. Can range from low-tech (pencil grips, slant boards) to high-tech (speech-generating devices, screen readers).

A written plan that outlines specific strategies for addressing a student's challenging behaviors. Should be based on a Functional Behavioral Assessment (FBA) and included in the IEP.

The team responsible for evaluating students ages 5–21 and developing IEPs in NYC. Every school district has a CSE. The team includes school staff, specialists, and — critically — the parent.

The team responsible for evaluating children ages 3–5 and developing IEPs for preschool-age children. Separate from the CSE, which handles school-age students.

A federally mandated program for children birth to age 3 with developmental delays or disabilities. Provides services in the home or community. Transitions to CPSE at age 3.

Special education services provided beyond the regular school year (typically summer). Required when a student would experience significant regression without continued services.

The cornerstone right under IDEA. Every eligible child is entitled to a free education that is appropriate to their individual needs, at no cost to the family. 'Appropriate' is defined by the IEP.

An evaluation process to identify the function (purpose) of a student's challenging behavior — what triggers it, what maintains it, and what the student is communicating. Used to develop a BIP.

The federal law that governs special education in the United States. Guarantees FAPE, LRE, parental participation, procedural safeguards, and more. Most of your rights come from this law.

An evaluation conducted by a qualified examiner who is not employed by the DOE. Parents can request an IEE at public expense if they disagree with the DOE's evaluation.

The legally binding document that describes a student's disability, present levels of performance, annual goals, and the special education services they will receive. Must be reviewed at least annually.

An independent, trained professional who presides over impartial hearings — the formal legal process for resolving disputes between families and the DOE.

To be eligible for special education, a student must have a disability in one of these 13 categories: Autism, Deaf-Blindness, Deafness, Emotional Disturbance, Hearing Impairment, Intellectual Disability, Multiple Disabilities, Orthopedic Impairment, Other Health Impairment (OHI), Specific Learning Disability (SLD), Speech or Language Impairment, Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), Visual Impairment.

The IDEA requirement that students with disabilities be educated alongside non-disabled peers to the maximum extent appropriate. Removal from general education must be justified in the IEP.

The state agency that oversees education in New York, including special education compliance. You file State Complaints with NYSED when the DOE violates IDEA.

A related service that helps students develop fine motor skills, sensory processing, self-care skills, and the ability to participate in school activities. Can be provided individually or in a group.

A school-wide framework for improving social, emotional, and behavioral outcomes by using positive, proactive strategies rather than punitive ones.

The section of the IEP that describes where your child is right now — academically, socially, emotionally, and functionally. The foundation from which all IEP goals and services should flow.

A related service that addresses gross motor skills, mobility, strength, and physical functioning. Provided when a student's physical needs affect their ability to access education.

A written notice the DOE must send you before making any change to your child's identification, evaluation, placement, or services. Must explain what they propose to do (or refuse to do) and why.

A professional who provides a related service (speech, OT, PT, counseling, etc.) as part of a student's IEP. Related services support the student's ability to benefit from special education.

Depending on context, refers to the director of special education at a school or district, or the special education department itself.

A specialist who evaluates and treats communication disorders — including articulation, language, fluency, voice, and social communication. Provides speech-language therapy as a related service.

A school-based team that meets to discuss students who are struggling and may need additional support. Can be a precursor to a special education referral, but is not the same as the CSE.

One of the 13 disability categories under IDEA. Refers to an acquired injury to the brain caused by an external physical force, resulting in functional disability.