





The Special Education Decoder: A parent’s plain-language guide to acronyms, terms, and what they actually mean in meetings
The Special Education Decoder
Understand the Language. Feel Confident in Your Advocacy.
The Special Education Decoder takes the mystery out of IEP meetings and school jargon so you can show up informed, confident, and ready to advocate for your child.
Inside, you’ll find clear, parent-friendly explanations of the most common acronyms, terms, and processes used in special education — from evaluations and services to placement options and procedural rights.
Each term includes plain-language definitions and actionable Advocate Tips that show you what the term means for you and how to use it in real-world conversations.
Whether you’re new to special education or want to strengthen your understanding of the system, this guide is your go-to resource for decoding complex terminology and turning it into meaningful action.
The Special Education Decoder
Understand the Language. Feel Confident in Your Advocacy.
The Special Education Decoder takes the mystery out of IEP meetings and school jargon so you can show up informed, confident, and ready to advocate for your child.
Inside, you’ll find clear, parent-friendly explanations of the most common acronyms, terms, and processes used in special education — from evaluations and services to placement options and procedural rights.
Each term includes plain-language definitions and actionable Advocate Tips that show you what the term means for you and how to use it in real-world conversations.
Whether you’re new to special education or want to strengthen your understanding of the system, this guide is your go-to resource for decoding complex terminology and turning it into meaningful action.