SPECIAL EDUCATION

What is traumatic brain injury?

This article is eighth in a series detailing special education services offered by SCSC through the Low Incidence Project.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) 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 may adversely affect a child’s educational performance and result in the need for special education or rated services. The term applies to open or closed head injuries resulting in impairments in one or more areas, such as cognition, speech/language, memory, attention, reasoning, abstract thinking, judgment, problem-solving, sensory, perceptual and motor abilities, psychosocial behavior, physical functions, and information processing. The term does not apply to brain injuries that are congenital or degenerative, or brain injuries induced by birth trauma. (M.R. 3525.1348)

Initially, there must be evidence that this injury has caused a functional disability or psychosocial impairment that adversely affects the student’s educational performance. This evidence is determined through the educational assessment process.

Regional specialists are available to assist district teams by:
TBI Resource Kits available by contacting TBI support staff
Consultation by PHD teachers regarding implications of TBI and educational strategies/accommodations
Promoting transition planning from one setting to another as well as transition to life after high school

CONTACT INFORMATION
Bambi Dubke
(507) 838-7722
dubb@waseca.k12.mn.us

Monica Junker
(507) 359-8720
mjunker@riverbend.k12.mn.us