What important factor must be demonstrated through client school records for establishing a disability before age 22?

To establish a disability before the age of 22, it is critical to demonstrate documented evidence through client school records, which primarily includes academic performance and attendance. This information is essential in understanding how the disability has affected the individual’s education and ability to succeed in a school environment.

Academic performance can reflect the challenges a student may face related to a disability, illustrating any learning difficulties or barriers that impact their educational achievement. Attendance records can show patterns of absences that might relate to the disability, further underscoring the impact it has on the individual's education. Collectively, these records help create a comprehensive view of how the disability has manifested during critical developmental years, thus playing a vital role in the assessment process for establishing eligibility.

While chronic illness history, behavioral issues recorded by teachers, and family history of disability may provide relevant context or support in understanding a client's background, they do not provide the direct academic evidence necessary to establish a disability under the specific criteria required for evaluation before age 22. This makes academic performance and attendance the most pertinent factors in this context.