So you started with a diagnosis for your student, which was probably quickly referred to with an acronym. Now you start the special education process -- which is a new and different language! Every meeting you go to or email you receive has new acronyms. One of the hardest parts of starting this journey is learning how to speak the language.
Many times this just leaves parents feeling like outsiders who must trust the experts who know what the terms all mean. It doesn't have to be that way! Here are some of common acronyms and meanings here to assist in your process. This is not meant to be an exhaustive list, but a jumping off point to start you on your journey.
These are used in different ways in every document and may or may not be applicable to your individual student. If you are confused by the terminology used to support your student, or are curious about the services your child could benefit from, Extraordinary Law is here to help. Reach out and let's see how I can help support your student and family! Call or email for a consultation today! 412-438-3186 or brandi@extraordinarylaw.com
ABA | Applied Behavior Analysis |
ADD | Attention Deficit Disorder |
ADHD | Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder |
APS | Approved Private School |
ASD | Autism Spectrum Disorder |
BC | Behavior Consultation |
BCBA | Board Certified Behavioral Analyst |
BHT | Behavior Health Technician |
CBA | Curriculum Based Assessment |
DSM-V | Diagnostic and Statistic Manual - 5th Edition |
ED | Emotional Disturbance |
ER | Evaluation Report |
ESY | Extended School Year |
FBA | Functional Behavior Analysis |
IBHS | Intensive Behavioral Health Services |
ID | Intellectual Disability |
IEP | Individualized Education Plan |
IFSP | Individual Family Service Plan |
IOP | Intensive Outpatient |
GAD | Generalized Anxiety Disorder |
GIEP | Gifted Individualized Education Plan |
LMB | Lindamood Bell (Reading Intervention) |
MDR | Manifestation Determination Review |
MT | Mobile Therapist |
NORA | Notice of Recommended Assignment |
NOREP | Notice of Recommended Educational Placement |
OCD | Obsessive Compulsive Disorder |
ODD | Oppositional Defiant Disorder |
OG | Orton Gillingham (Reading Intervention) |
OT | Occupational Therapist |
PCA | Personal Care Aide |
PHP | Partial Hospitalization Program |
PT | Physical Therapist |
PTE | Permission to Evaluate |
SLD | Specific Learning Disability |
SLP | Speech and Language Pathologist |
RR | Reevaluation Report |