Special education comes with a lot of terminology. These guides break down the concepts, credentials, and processes you’ll encounter most — written for parents and school staff alike. Looking for something specific? browse the full site directory or ask us directly.
Terms like IEP, 504, FAPE, and LRE get used constantly in school meetings, but rarely explained in plain language. The guides below exist to close that gap — each one focuses on a single concept, defines it clearly, and links out to the related process or paperwork it connects to. We update this library as terminology or state guidance changes, so it reflects current California special education practice, not just general definitions.
IEP & 504 Basics
- What Is an IEP? A Complete Guide
- What Is a 504 Plan?
- IEP vs 504 Plan: What’s the Difference
- What Is an IEP Team Meeting?
- How IEP Goals Are Measured and Tracked
- Understanding FAPE (Free Appropriate Public Education)
- Understanding Least Restrictive Environment (LRE)
- Inclusion Classrooms: What Parents Should Know
Behavior & Assessment
- What Is a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP)?
- What Is a Functional Behavior Assessment?
- What Is Extended School Year (ESY)?
Aide Roles & Credentials
- What Is an Instructional Aide in California?
- What Does “DOJ Applicant Agency” (ORI) Status Mean?
- What Does DOJ Background Clearance Mean for School Staff?
- Instructional Aide vs Teacher’s Aide vs Paraeducator: Terms Explained
- How to Become an Instructional Aide in California
- How School Districts Evaluate Aide Vendors
