Who is eligible for services under IDEA?
Children who have a disability that causes them to need specialized educational services to benefit from their education are entitled to receive special education and related services as a “child with a disability.” Eligible disabilities include but are not limited to sensory (such as hearing, visual, or speech/language) or orthopedically impaired, mentally retarded, emotionally disturbed, other health impairment or children with specific learning disabilities (e.g., dyslexia, if it is a significant impediment to learning). In addition, children with autism and traumatic brain injury are eligible for special education under federal law. [20 U.S.C. Sec. 1401(3); 34 C.F.R. Sec. 300.8.] California calls these children “individuals with exceptional needs.” [Cal. Ed. Code Sec. 56026.] Children meeting these criteria between the ages of five years and 18 years, inclusive, are eligible for special education. [Cal. Ed. Code Sec. 56026(c)(3).] Individuals between 19 and 21, inclusive, who are e
