Kankakee School District 111

The Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) outlines a comprehensive structure for identifying and supporting students with disabilities by delineating specific disability areas. These categories include Autism; Deaf‑Blindness; Deafness; Emotional Disturbance; Hearing Impairment; Intellectual Disability; Multiple Disabilities; Orthopedic Impairment; Other Health Impairment; Specific Learning Disability; Speech/Language Impairment; Traumatic Brain Injury; and Visual Impairment. Each disability area is defined not only by the nature of the impairment but also by how it may significantly affect a child’s educational performance, necessitating special education services. The criteria account for developmental, sensory, cognitive, physical, emotional, and language‑related factors, ensuring that students whose needs fall into diverse domains are recognized and served appropriately.

In addition to the categorical definitions, the ISBE guidelines emphasize evidence‑based practices, appropriate diagnostic tools, and procedural frameworks for evaluation and eligibility. For example, specific learning disabilities are determined through a process that can include Response to Intervention (RtI) mechanisms, ensuring that a student’s responsiveness to scientifically validated interventions is part of the eligibility discussion. The descriptions also set boundaries between categories (e.g., distinguishing between hearing impairment versus deafness, or specific learning disabilities versus difficulties stemming from intellectual disability, sensory, or cultural/economic disadvantage). Together, these disability‑area definitions are designed to guide educators, specialists, families, and policymakers in understanding student needs, delivering tailored supports, and making informed decisions about services and interventions.

Eligibility Categories

• Autism
• DeafBlindness
• Deafness
• Developmental Delay
• Emotional Disability
• Hearing Impairments
• Intellectual Disability
• Multiple Disabilities
• Orthopedic Impairment
• Other Health Impairment
• Specific Learning Disability
• Speech or Language Impairment
• Traumatic Brain Injury
• Visual Impairment