Special Education Terms

A formal legally binding plan that outlines the accommodations and services a public school will provide to ensure a student with a disability has equal access to the general education curriculum.

It is an evidence-based therapy and scientific approach to understanding behavior and learning.

A civil rights law that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in all areas of public life.

An informal way of settling disagreements directly with the school or district.

In New Jersey, these are state-certified, private special education schools that serve children with complex needs whose local public school districts cannot adequately accommodate them in their own programs.

Refers to any device, software, or equipment that helps students with disabilities increase, maintain, or improve their functional capabilities.

A personalized, written plan designed to replace challenging student behaviors with positive ones, often created after a Functional Behavior Assessment.

The governing body that oversees a local public school district or state educational system. These boards consist of elected or appointed citizens who serve as the policy-making arm of the school district.

An educational strategy used in special education where students learn functional, life, and vocational skills rather than in a traditional classroom.

Federally-funded non-profit organizations that empower families and parents of children with disabilities. CPRCs focus on training, information, and resources to help parents participate effectively in their children's education.

A collaborative group of educators, psychologists, and specialists who evaluate students for special education services and develop intervention plans.

It is the state child welfare agency responsible for investigating allegations of child abuse, neglect, or severe family struggles.

A state-level government agency that provides public funding and services to individuals (usually ages 21 and older) with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Provides an alternate set of academic standards and assessments designed for students with the most significant cognitive disabilities.

It is a state and federally funded program designed to help students and adults with disabilities successfully prepare for, obtain, and keep jobs. This can be crucial in developing a transition plan.

Publicly funded programs for children (birth to age three) with developmental delays or disabilities. Services are tailored to each child and can include speech therapy, physical and occupational therapy, and special education.