Traumatic Brain Injury

TBI Incidence

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is the leading cause of disability in children and youth across the United States; as many as one million children and youth will sustain a TBI from motor vehicle crashes, falls, sports-related injuries and abuse. The largest group of individuals with traumatic brain injuries fall within the 15 to 24 year old age group, but the frequency is nearly as high for children and youth under 15 years of age.

TBI Definition

TBI is a low incidence special education category that is defined as an injury to the brain caused by an external physical force, resulting in total or partial functional disability and/or psycho-social impairment that may adversely affect a student's performance and result in the need for special education and related services. The term does not apply to brain injuries that are congenital or degenerative, or brain injuries induced by birth trauma. (MN Rule 3525.1348)

TBI Specialists and Resources

TBI specialists provide consultation and support to students who qualify under the TBI category, and to their educational teams. While currently there is no teacher licensure for the special education categorical area of TBI in the state of Minnesota, the involvement of a TBI Specialist in a student’s school programming is highly encouraged. Find more information and other resources, including the TBI manual on the TBI Resources page.

Contact Information

Kelly Bredeken, Ed. S., Statewide TBI Specialist
MN Low Incidence Projects
612-638-1506, kelly.bredeken@brightworksmn.org