informed clinical opinion: the judgment of a qualified
professional who is a member of the multidisciplinary
team. Informed clinical opinion is based on, but not limited to, opinions derived from a review of records, parent and professional observation of the child, and knowledge of evidence-based practice.
interagency agreement: an agreement between two or
more agencies designating specific activities, behaviors,
and responsibilities of each party in relation to a shared
activity, interest, or requirement.
Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Services Act:
statute that governs how services are delivered within the
California developmental services system.
Lanterman eligibility: regional center services determined
through a diagnosis of developmental disability (see developmental disability).
least restrictive environment (LRE): one of several vital
components in the development of a child’s individualized education program that plays a critical role, influencing where a child spends his or her time at school, how services are provided, and the relationships the child develops within the school and community.
local education agency (LEA): a school district, county
office of education, or special education local plan area
that is responsible for providing educational services.
memorandum of understanding (MOU): written
agreement between agencies stating each agency’s specific
responsibilities in coordinating early intervention services.
multidisciplinary team—Early Start: the parent and two
or more individuals of various disciplines or professions
(one of whom is the service coordinator) who participate
in the provision of integrated and coordinated services,
including evaluation and assessment and development of
individualized family service plans.
multidisciplinary team—Part B: a group of specialists
who independently assess and evaluate the child in their
individual area of expertise and then collaborate with one
another and families to develop and implement individualized education programs.