• Definition

    A traumatic brain injury means an acquired injury to the brain caused by an external physical force resulting in total or partial functional disability or psychosocial impairment, or both, that adversely affects educational performance. The term applies to mild, moderate, or severe open or closed head injuries resulting in impairments in one or more areas, such as cognition; language; memory; attention; reasoning; abstract thinking; judgment; problem solving; sensory, perceptual and motor abilities; psychosocial behavior; physical functions; information processing; or speech. The term includes anoxia due to trauma. The term does not include brain injuries that are congenital, degenerative, or induced by birth trauma.
     
    Eligibility Criteria
     
    A student is eligible for specially designed instruction and related services as a student with a traumatic brain injury if the following criteria are met:
    1. There is evidence of a traumatic brain injury that impacts one or more of the areas identified in the definition.
    2. The student demonstrates a need for special education.

    Student Evaluation

    1. In addition to the provisions in Rule 6A-6.0331, F.A.C., regarding general education intervention procedures, the minimum student evaluations shall include all of the following:
      1. A report of a medical examination, within the previous twelve (12)-month 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 determined by the district to be permitted in accordance with Rule 6A-6.0331(3)(c), F.A.C. The physician's report must provide a description of the traumatic brain injury and any medical implications for instruction
      2. Documented evidence by more than one person, including the parent, guardian, or primary caregiver, in more than one situation. The documentation shall include evidence of a marked contrast of pre- and post-injury capabilities in one or more of the following areas: cognition; language; memory; attention; reasoning; abstract thinking; judgment; problem solving; sensory, perceptual, and motor abilities; psychosocial behavior; physical functions; information processing or speech
      3. An educational evaluation that identifies educational and environmental needs of the student.
    2. The evaluation may also include a neuropsychological evaluation when requested by the exceptional student education administrator or designee.
  • Contact Information:
     
    Supervisor of School Psychology
    (904)858-6150
     
     
     
    Important Links: