Disability Considerations

There are 13 federally recognized disability categories in United States public schools.

(There are some variations in special education categories from state-to-state.)

In determining the disability needs of a student, educators may consider:

• Results of evaluation testing, including classroom observations, teacher or parent/guardian interviews, rating scales and checklists, and achievement or cognitive test results
• Student’s scores on state or district content tests
• Formative assessment results
• Special education services received currently and prior to enrolling in current school