Which of the following is NOT a qualifying disability for special education services?

Which of the following is NOT a qualifying disability for special education services?

• A. Autism
• B. Intellectual disability
• C. Speech or language impairment
• D. Temporary mild illness

Answer: (D)

The response accurately identifies that a temporary mild illness is not a qualifying disability for special education services. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), disabilities that qualify for special education must significantly impact a child's ability to perform in an educational setting. Options such as autism, intellectual disability, and speech or language impairment are recognized as disabilities that can result in challenges requiring specialized instruction and support. These conditions are typically persistent and can have a lasting influence on a child's educational performance. In contrast, a temporary mild illness, although it may affect a student’s functioning at a certain time, does not generally indicate a long-term or ongoing need for special education services. Instead, students with temporary illnesses are typically supported by other avenues, such as accommodations or modifications, rather than qualifying for special education due to a simultaneous and persistent need.

The response accurately identifies that a temporary mild illness is not a qualifying disability for special education services. Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), disabilities that qualify for special education must significantly impact a child's ability to perform in an educational setting.

Options such as autism, intellectual disability, and speech or language impairment are recognized as disabilities that can result in challenges requiring specialized instruction and support. These conditions are typically persistent and can have a lasting influence on a child's educational performance.

In contrast, a temporary mild illness, although it may affect a student’s functioning at a certain time, does not generally indicate a long-term or ongoing need for special education services. Instead, students with temporary illnesses are typically supported by other avenues, such as accommodations or modifications, rather than qualifying for special education due to a simultaneous and persistent need.