Orthopedically Impaired (OI)

Students with orthopedic impairments have a wide range of needs based on the nature and severity of their physical impairments. Orthopedic impairment is defined by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) as a severe orthopedic impairment that adversely affects a student’s educational performance. Primarily, orthopedic impairments involve physical disabilities which could affect the academic process. An evaluation is required for a disability to be classified as an orthopedic impairment. Considering the diversity in conditions embodied by the orthopedic impairments category, educational challenges will differ case by case, and the strategies used in each case should focus on a student’s unique needs.

Many of these students attend regular classes in their local school districts. The OH teacher travels to the local school to facilitate the student’s program through consultation and direct services.