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(3.19) Can gifted students be denied special education eligibility for specific learning disabilities based solely on intelligence?

(3.19) Can gifted students be denied special education eligibility for specific learning disabilities based solely on intelligence?

No.  A federal Office of Special Education Programs Clarification Letter written January 14, 1992, states:

  • Neither Part B nor Part B regulations provide for any exclusions based on intelligence level in determining eligibility for Part B services…All children, except those specifically excluded in the regulations, regardless of IQ, are eligible to be considered as having a specific learning disability, if they meet the eligibility requirements… [18 IDELR 683.]

In addition, school districts cannot deny assessment for special education eligibility solely on adequate grades. Grades are only one indicator of the educational impact that a student’s disability is having on the student’s school functioning.