Once an individual has been identified as having an intellectual developmental disorder, an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) is developed in the K-12 school system.  The individual is eligible for services under the category of Developmental Cognitive Disability (DCD) until age twenty-one, through transition services.  After age twenty-one, families and agencies must step in to ensure the appropriate services are provided.

Elementary and secondary students benefit from small group or one-on-one instruction with multiple language opportunities and repetition throughout their day.

Transition students benefit from community-based instruction to promote work and living skills.

ABE students who report Intellectual Developmental Disorder, Intellectual Disability, or Developmentally delayed will be better served by organizations that provide job training or recreational skills.  See the Resources and Website Links chapter for referral.