Disabilities of students served by SSD are classified into the following categories:

• Learning Disabilities - a neurological impairment, resulting in below-average functioning in some academic areas with average to above-average functioning in other areas.
• Attention Deficit Disorder - a neurological impairment resulting in an inability to focus attention on one stimulus. Characterized by an inability to focus and concentrate for long periods.
• Sensory - a reduction in the ability to see or hear.
• Health Disabilities - a wide range of disabilities that result from medical conditions. These include lupus, arthritis, multiple sclerosis, cancer, epilepsy, respiratory problems, etc.
• Non-Ambulatory - because of the nature of the disability, a wheelchair or scooter is used for mobility.
• Psychological - a disability characterized by a reduction in appropriate thinking or social behavior.
• Traumatic Brain Injury - neurological impairment resulting in loss of cognitive, psychological and physical functioning.