Definition

A student with an emotional disturbance is one who exhibits one or more of the following characteristics over a long period of time and to a marked degree that adversely affects a child's educational performance

• An inability to learn that cannot be explained by intellectual, sensory, or other health factors
• An inability to build or maintain satisfactory interpersonal relationships with peers and teachers
• Inappropriate types of behaviors and feelings under normal circumstances
• A general pervasive mood of unhappiness or depression
• A tendency to develop physical symptoms or fears associated with personal or school problems.

The term includes schizophrenia. The term does not apply to children who are socially maladjusted, unless it is determined that they also have an emotional disturbance.

Required Eligibility Documentation

• FIE which includes a psychological evaluation completed by a licensed specialist in school psychology
• Evaluation report and eligibility form for Emotional Disturbances completed and signed by a licensed specialist in school psychology
  
  

ARD/IEP Requirements

• Develop Behavior Intervention Plan for students with severe behaviors
• Specific recommendations for behavioral supports and interventions made by the ARD committee