STUDENTS WITH HIDDEN DISABILITIES

Did you know that the US Department of Education publishes a pamphlet named “The Civic Rights of Students with Hidden
Disabilities”? Hidden disabilities are those, which are not readily noticeable, such as blindness, etc. Hidden disabilities cover a
variety of conditions including diabetes, specific learning disabilities, and Selective Mutism. 

A disability, as defined under law and the US Department of Education, is an impairment, which substantially limits a person’s
major life activities. 

Some of the responsibilities of public institutions include:

• Providing a free appropriate education. 
• Administering nondiscriminatory evaluations and diagnostic test to avoid inappropriate placement and 
  classification. (For Selective Mutism, hearing impaired so that verbal responses are not required). 
• Providing equal opportunity for nonacademic and after school services and activities. 

For a copy of this pamphlet and others write to:
US Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, Washington DC 20202-1328
Or call 800-368-1019. 

Please see our related links section for a list of agencies to contact for help or information regarding Special Education, funding,
laws, regulations, etc.