6A-6.030151. Exceptional Student Education Eligibility for Students with Orthopedic Impairment

(1) Definition. Orthopedic impairment means a severe skeletal, muscular, or neuromuscular impairment. The term includes impairments resulting from congenital anomalies (e.g. including but not limited to skeletal deformity or spina bifida), and impairments resulting from other causes (e.g., including but not limited to cerebral palsy or amputations).

(2) General education interventions and activities. Prior to referral for evaluation, the requirements in subsection 6A-6.0331(1), F.A.C., must be met.

(3) Evaluation. In addition to the provisions in subsection 6A-6.0331(5), F.A.C., the evaluation for determining eligibility shall include the following:

(a) A report of a medical examination, within the previous twelve-month (12) period, from a physician(s) licensed in Florida in accordance with Chapter 458 or 459, F.S., unless a report of medical examination from a physician licensed in another state is permitted in accordance with paragraph 6A-6.0331(3)(c), F.A.C. The physician’s report must provide a description of the impairment and any medical implications for instruction; and,

(b) An educational evaluation that identifies educational and environmental needs of the student.

(4) Criteria for eligibility. A student with an orthopedic impairment is eligible for exceptional student education, if the following criteria are met:

(a) Evidence of an orthopedic impairment that adversely affects the student’s performance in the educational environment in any of the following: ambulation, hand movement, coordination, or daily living skills; and,

(b) The student needs special education as defined in paragraph 6A-6.03411(1)(kk), F.A.C.

Rulemaking Authority 1003.01, 1003.57(1)(e), 1003.571 FS. Law Implemented 1003.01(3), 1003.57(1)(e), 1003.571 FS. History–New 7-1-07, Amended 12-15-09.