Eligibility and Characteristics of Students with Exceptionalities Under IDEA

Under IDEA Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), students with exceptionalities are defined as those who exhibit significant challenges in academic, social, or emotional functioning due to specific disabilities. To be eligible for special education services, a comprehensive evaluation must be conducted to confirm the presence of one or more disabilities listed in IDEA, such as Autism Spectrum Disorder, Intellectual Disabilities, or Specific Learning Disabilities. Characteristics of these students may vary widely but often include difficulties in communication, social skills, and adaptive behavior. Understanding these characteristics is crucial for educators, as it helps them tailor instruction and support strategies to meet each student's unique needs. Research indicates that early identification and intervention can significantly improve outcomes for these students, underscoring the importance of ongoing training for educators and support staff (Yell, 2016).