Low Incidence Disabilities

Here at the SELPA, we coordinate and support member school districts in meeting the unique needs of students with low incidence disabilities. We accomplish this by:

• Assisting in the identification and assessment of eligible students
• Helping districts access trained specialists and appropriate materials
• Coordinating low incidence equipment purchases and services
• Providing professional learning opportunities for staff

Our goal is to ensure each student has access to the tools and support needed to participate meaningfully in their educational program.

To qualify for low incidence support through SELPA coordination, a student must:

• Be identified as having one of the qualifying low incidence disabilities
• Have an active Individualized Education Program (IEP)
• Require specialized services, equipment, or materials related to the low incidence condition

In California, students with low incidence disabilities—such as deaf or hard of hearing, blind or visually impaired, or those with severe orthopedic impairments—require specialized instruction and services delivered by qualified professionals.

Students with low incidence disabilities must receive support from staff who have the proper training and state certification, including:

• Teachers with specialized credentials in:
• Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH)
• Visual Impairments (VI)
• Orthopedic Impairments (OI)
• Related service providers, such as:
• Educational interpreters
• Orientation and mobility specialists
• Assistive technology providers
• Adaptive physical education teachers

These professionals work as part of a student's IEP team to provide the individualized instruction and supports needed for meaningful access to learning.