Students with disabilities are protected under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA, 2004), which governs how states and public agencies provide early intervention, special education and related services to more than 6.5 million eligible toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities in the United States. The following categories of exceptionalities are included in IDEA: Autism Spectrum Disorder Intellectual Disabilities, covering students who are educable m

Learning disabilities are usually tested for and diagnosed when a child’s achievement in school is significantly below expectations based upon age, educational experience and level of intelligence. Low achievement does not necessarily indicate a learning ability. Below-average academic performance can result from a lack of motivation on the child’s part, a lack of educational experience or instruction, or environmental factors such as allergies. Poor hearing or vision often c