Definitions

As used in this chapter, the term: (1) ‘‘Blind student’’ means an individual who is eligible for special education services and who: (A) Has a visual acuity of 20/200 or less in the better eye with correcting lenses or has a limited field of vision such that the widest diameter subtends an angular distance of no greater than 20 degrees; or (B) Has a medically indicated expectation of visual deterioration. (2) ‘‘Braille’’ means the system of reading and writing through touch commonly known as standard English Braille. (3) ‘‘Individualized education program’’ means a written statement developed for a student eligible for special education services pursuant to Section 602(a)(20) of Part A of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, 20 U.S.C.A. Section 1401(a)(20). (Code 1981, § 30-7-2, enacted by Ga. L. 1994, p. 1796, § 3.) 835 30-7-3 30-7-3. Individualized education program for blind students; evaluation of Braille skills. (a) Each blind student must be identified and, if appropriate, offered an individualized education program in consultation with a parent or legal guardian. While Braille is not required, it is presumed that Braille reading and writing are valuable skills and as needed are to be considered in the student’s transition plan. (b) No child who is blind may be denied the opportunity to receive instruction in Braille reading and writing if the child has the ability to read and write print. (c) Each blind student shall be evaluated to determine the need for Braille skills. The purpose of the evaluation shall be to determine the appropriate reading and writing media for the individual child. (d) Nothing in this Code section shall require the inclusion of Braille in a blind student’s individualized education program. (Code 1981, § 30-7-3, enacted by Ga. L. 1994, p. 1796, § 3.)