If you’ve ever sat in a school meeting and felt like everyone was speaking in code, you’re not alone.
The world of special education is filled with acronyms — IEP, FAPE, 504, BIP, and more — and it can be confusing to know where to start. At Gaddies, we like to think of it as the “Special Ed Alphabet Soup” — except these letters can shape your child’s learning experience. So let’s break it down, one spoonful at a time.
What Is an IEP?
An IEP (Individualized Education Program) is a legal contract between you and your child’s school. It outlines the goals, supports, and services your child will receive if they have a disability or developmental delay that impacts learning.
Each IEP is personalized — built around your child’s strengths, needs, and challenges — to make sure they have access to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE).
Understanding “Child Find” and Your Rights
Every school district has a legal duty to locate, identify, and evaluate students who may need special education services — this process is called Child Find.
If your district fails to fulfill that obligation, you have the right to file a state complaint and request an evaluation. These protections are backed by federal laws like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which outline both your rights and your child’s.
What Is FAPE?
FAPE stands for Free Appropriate Public Education.
It’s a guarantee under IDEA that every student with a disability is entitled to an education designed to meet their individual needs — provided at no cost to parents.
This means your child’s school must provide the services and supports listed in their IEP or 504 Plan, ensuring equitable access to education.
Can Parents Request an IEP?
Yes — parents can request an IEP evaluation in writing at any time.
That said, schools often start with multi-tiered interventions to see if supports within the general education setting are effective. These can include a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP), safety plan, or other targeted supports before a full IEP process begins.
Nothing happens without your written consent, and you can withdraw that consent at any point.
What Is a BIP?
A Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) is a written strategy to help students who struggle with behaviors that affect learning.
It’s based on a Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) — a process that identifies why a behavior happens — and includes positive strategies to encourage better outcomes.
Think of it as a roadmap for helping your child manage emotions, routines, and behaviors in school.
What’s a 504 Plan?
A 504 Plan ensures that students with disabilities can learn alongside their peers by removing barriers to education.
It’s not part of special education law — it’s a civil rights protection under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
504 Plans outline specific accommodations (like extra test time, seating changes, or assistive technology) that allow equal access to learning.
Fun fact: even adults can have 504 accommodations at work. One of our team members uses one for hearing support!
Moving Into IEP Territory: REED, MET, and PLAAFP
Once you move into IEP eligibility, you’ll meet some new terms:
REED (Review of Existing Evaluation Data): A process that reviews what’s already known before deciding if new testing is needed.
MET (Multidisciplinary Evaluation Team): The team that conducts assessments and determines eligibility — and no, it’s not the Met Gala (though we love the outfits).
PLAAFP (Present Levels of Academic Achievement and Functional Performance): The section of the IEP that describes your child’s current abilities and challenges. It’s the foundation for setting realistic goals.
Who’s on the IEP Team?
Your child’s support network might include a wide range of professionals:
OT (Occupational Therapist)
PT (Physical Therapist)
SLP (Speech and Language Pathologist)
School Social Worker or Counselor
Behavioral Intervention Specialist
Together, they collaborate with you to build an IEP that helps your child grow both academically and emotionally.
What If the School Denies Your Request?
If your district denies your request for evaluation or services, they must issue a PWN (Prior Written Notice) explaining their decision.
If you disagree, you can request an IEE (Independent Educational Evaluation) — a comprehensive assessment conducted by someone outside the school district, often at public expense.
Feeling Overwhelmed? You’re Not Alone.
The special education process can feel like learning a whole new language — but you’re part of a community of parents, advocates, and educators who’ve been there.
For a full list of definitions and resources, check out:
Remember: behind every acronym is a team of people committed to helping your child succeed.
“It takes a village — and in special education, your child’s team is part of that village.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What does IEP stand for?
IEP stands for Individualized Education Program — a legally binding plan that outlines the specialized services and supports a child with disabilities receives at school.
What is the difference between a 504 Plan and an IEP?
A 504 Plan provides classroom accommodations, while an IEP includes specialized instruction and measurable goals. Both ensure access to education, but IEPs are part of special education law under IDEA.
What does FAPE mean in special education?
FAPE stands for Free Appropriate Public Education, a right that guarantees all students with disabilities receive education and services at no cost to families.
Can parents request an IEP evaluation?
Yes. Parents can request an evaluation in writing at any time. The school must respond, evaluate, and provide a written notice of its decision (PWN).
What happens if I disagree with the school’s evaluation?
You can request an Independent Educational Evaluation (IEE) by a qualified professional not employed by the district. The school often must cover the cost.
