An educational classification, not a medical diagnosis. A medical or clinical diagnosis does not automatically qualify a child for an IEP, and a child can qualify under IDEA without one. Eligibility is an educational team decision based on evaluation data. These are educational classifications, not medical diagnoses.
What it means
Orthopedic impairment means a severe physical impairment that adversely affects a child educational performance. It includes impairments from a congenital condition, from disease, and from other causes such as cerebral palsy, amputations, or fractures and burns that cause limited movement.
What it can include
- Cerebral palsy and similar conditions
- Limited movement or mobility
- Physical access and fine or gross motor needs
How it affects school
Supports can include physical and occupational therapy, assistive technology, accessible materials, and changes to the physical environment so the child can participate.
How IEP eligibility works
To qualify for an IEP under this category, an evaluation team generally must find three things to be true:
- A qualifying disability. The child is evaluated and found to have one or more of the 13 disability categories defined under IDEA.
- An adverse effect on learning. The disability must adversely affect the child educational performance. A label by itself is not enough.
- A need for specially designed instruction. Because of the disability, the child needs special education and related services to access their education.
Common questions
Does a physical disability automatically mean my child gets an IEP?
Only if it is severe enough to adversely affect educational performance and the child needs specially designed instruction. Some children are served through a 504 plan instead.
Are therapies included?
Yes. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and assistive technology can be written into the IEP as related services when needed.
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