What does the acronym "IEP" stand for?

The acronym "IEP" stands for "Individualized Education Program." This term is essential in the context of special education as it refers to a document developed for each public school child who is eligible for special education. An IEP outlines the specific educational goals for the student and the services that will be provided to help them achieve those goals. The "individualized" aspect emphasizes that the program is tailored to meet the unique needs of each student, taking into account their individual strengths, weaknesses, and learning styles.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the formal terminology used in special education. For instance, "Individual Education Program" lacks the specificity that "individualized" provides. "Instructional Education Plan" does not encompass the full scope of what an IEP entails, focusing too narrowly on instruction without the broader context of special education support. "Intensive Educational Program" misrepresents the purpose of an IEP, which aims at individualized support rather than being defined as intensive.