Understanding Eligibility for Special Education Services in the U.S.
Special education in the United States is overseen by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), ensuring that children with specific disabilities receive the support they need to succeed in education. The Act defines a range of disabilities that typically qualify for special education services, helping ensure that every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Commonly Qualified Disabilities Under IDEA
The Disabilities Act identifies several types of disabilities that may qualify a child for special education services. These include:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental disorder that affects communication and behavior. Children with ASD may exhibit a range of challenges in social interaction, verbal and non-verbal communication, and repetitive behaviors.
Deafness
Deafness refers to a complete or partial inability to hear. Children who are deaf or have significant hearing loss may qualify for special education to ensure they can access and engage with educational content effectively.
Hearing Impairment
Hearing Impairment is a hearing loss that impacts a child's educational performance, but is not classified as deafness. These children may require specialized support to ensure they can fully participate in the classroom.
Intellectual Disability
An intellectual disability is characterized by significantly below-average intellectual functioning along with limitations in adaptive behavior. These children often require specific educational support to help them develop life skills and academic knowledge.
Multiple Disabilities
Multiple Disabilities refer to a combination of impairments that result in severe educational needs. Children with this condition may have difficulties with communication, mobility, and cognitive functions, requiring comprehensive educational assistance.
Orthopedic Impairment
Orthopedic Impairment is a physical disability that affects a child's ability to move or perform actions that are necessary for educational success. Children with such impairments may require adaptations in the learning environment to support their needs.
Other Health Impairment (OHI)
Other Health Impairment encompasses chronic or acute health conditions that affect a child's strength, vitality, or alertness. Conditions like ADHD, epilepsy, and chronic illnesses can qualify a child for special education support to ensure they can participate fully in the classroom.
Specific Learning Disability (SLD)
Specific Learning Disability is a disorder in one or more of the basic psychological processes involved in understanding or using language. This can manifest as difficulties in reading, writing, or math, requiring specialized educational support.
Speech or Language Impairment
Speech or Language Impairment refers to a communication disorder that affects a child's ability to speak or understand language. These children may require speech therapy and other interventions to enhance their communication skills.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
A Traumatic Brain Injury is an injury to the brain caused by an external force that results in impairments affecting educational performance. Children with TBIs may need specialized educational support to help them recover and adapt to the learning environment.
Visual Impairment Including Blindness
A Visual Impairment, even with correction, can affect a child's educational performance. These children may require specialized educational materials and support to ensure they can fully engage with classroom activities.
Eligibility Criteria for Special Education Services
To qualify for special education services, a child's disability must adversely affect their educational performance. The child must also be evaluated and found eligible under the criteria set forth by IDEA. Each state may have additional guidelines, but these categories are recognized federally.
Additional Eligibility Categories: State-Defined Disabilities
In addition to the federal categories, some states use broader terms like 'Developmental Disabilities.' This category may include:
Cognitive or Intellectual Disability
Cognitive or intellectual disability is a condition where a child has significantly below-average intellectual functioning.
Learning Disability
A learning disability is a difficulty in one or more of the basic academic skills such as reading, writing, and math.
Autism Emotional Disability (AED)
Autism Emotional Disability refers to social and emotional challenges that can affect a child's educational performance.
Behavioral Disability
Behavioral Disability involves behavioral challenges that can hinder a child's ability to function in the classroom.
Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)
A Traumatic Brain Injury is an injury to the brain caused by an external force that can significantly impact a child's educational performance.
Physical Disability
A Physical Disability is a physical condition that affects a child's ability to move or perform actions necessary for educational success.
Speech and Language Disability
A Speech and Language Disability is a communication disorder that affects a child's ability to speak or understand language.
Medical/Health Disability
A Medical/Health Disability is a health condition that can affect a child's educational performance, such as chronic or acute conditions.
States may define further categories based on specific local needs and circumstances, but the federal guidelines provide a framework for determining eligibility for special education services.