Blindness Skills Specialist Program

LEA Information

Unique IEP requirements for students who are visually impaired

In the state of Missouri, the IEP must address issues related to Braille instruction for any student who is visually impaired.  The IEP must also address a process by which the student or family is referred to Rehabilitation Services for the Blind.  The following was taken from DESE Special Education Regulations IV FAPE/IEP/LRE page 35.

For a child with a visual impairment, the IEP must include: 

1. The specific goals and objectives which specify the competencies in reading and writing Braille to be taught during the school year;

2. Means by which Braille will be implemented through integration with normal classroom activities;

3. The date on which Braille instruction will commence;

4. The level of competency in Braille reading and writing expected to be achieved by the end of the period covered in the IEP;

5. The duration of each session;

6. If the IEP team determines that Braille instruction is not appropriate for a child with blindness or visual impairments, the basis for that determination shall be documented on the IEP; and,

7. That a referral to Rehabilitation Services for the Blind has been discussed and the decision of the parent regarding the referral.

If your school district would like clarification on the above requirements regarding Braille, please contact the Blind Skills Specialist Program.