Alaska2026Passed Legislature

SB127

Education for Visually Impaired Students

Last scannedSep 12, 2026, 4:46 AM

In one sentence

This law requires Alaska school districts to include braille instruction in education plans for visually impaired students unless other services are determined to be more appropriate.

Requires schools to assume that literacy skills are essential goals for students with visual impairments when creating their education plans.
Mandates that individualized education programs must include braille instruction by default.
Allows schools to skip braille only if they determine other special services better fit the student's needs, though this does not stop them from also providing braille.
Creates a state program to provide extra materials and teachers for visually impaired children ages 3 to under 21.
Requires the agency to help train current teachers in how to teach braille.

Students with visual impairments who are at least three years old but less than 22 years old.
Public school districts that create individualized education programs.
Teachers of students with visual impairments who will receive training.
The state agency and department responsible for special education services.

The law does not specify how much funding is available for the new training or materials.
It does not state when this program will officially begin operating in schools.
The text does not explain exactly what other services might be considered more appropriate than braille.

Plain language

Individualized Education Program: A written plan that lists the specific educational goals and services a student with disabilities needs.
Braille: The system of reading and writing through touch, specifically Standard English Braille Grade 2.

Official record

Validated

EDUCATION FOR VISUALLY IMPAIRED STUDENTS An Act relating to the education of visually impaired students in public schools.

Official activity