If your child has low vision or blindness, school can present some challenges. Whether it is difficulty with reading the board, seeing print in handouts, or utilizing technology, a student with visual impairment shouldn’t have to work twice as hard to access the same education as their peers. Fortunately, Indiana families have options: legal protections, specialized educational services, assistive technologies, and other resources are available to help students succeed in the classroom and beyond. Read on to learn more about the support available to your student with low vision or blindness.
What Challenges Do Students with Low Vision or Blindness Face?
For students with visual impairment, learning is not as straightforward as “receive information and study.” It may be a struggle to read textbooks, see the board, navigate the school, use online materials, or simply keep up with the class without significant visual fatigue. Without support, students must spend extra effort trying to access information rather than focusing on learning.
What Legal Protections are Available for Indiana Students?
Eligible Indiana students with low vision or blindness are protected by federal law under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Indiana special education rules. Support is typically documented through an Individualized Education Program (or Plan) (IEP) or a 504 Plan. An IEP is a written plan developed by the student’s educational team that outlines the specialized instruction, services, and accommodations a student needs. A 504 Plan provides accommodations that allow students with disabilities to access education alongside their peers.
What Classroom Accommodations and Devices Can Help Students?
Accommodations are based on a student’s individual needs—not simply their diagnosis or visual-acuity measurement. For students with low vision or blindness, common supports might be:
- Large-print, Braille, audio, or accessible digital materials
- Magnification tools
- Special glasses designed to improve visual function
- Screen readers
- Video magnifiers
- Preferential seating
- Improved classroom lighting
- Additional time for assignments or tests
- Visual breaks to reduce fatigue
- Instruction from a teacher of students with visual impairments
- Orientation and mobility training
The most effective accommodations are individualized. A tool that works well for one student may not be the best option for another.
Do Teachers and School Staff Receive Training?
Certainly, not every classroom teacher is trained in visual impairment, so specific staff training may need to be requested and included in an IEP. If your child is struggling, you should request a school evaluation in writing. I don’t recommend waiting for the school to recognize every problem, and you definitely don’t want to assume your child simply needs to try harder.
What Specialized Schools and Programs Exist?
You might already be familiar with the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired (ISBVI), but many would be surprised to know its role extends far beyond operating a specialized school.
ISBVI also supports students and educators in local school districts, provides short-term programs, and helps schools obtain accessible educational materials. Through outreach services, ISBVI works with students who attend their local schools by providing resources, training, and support to help meet their educational needs.
Additionally, BOSMA offers transition and employment services for eligible Indiana students ages 16 through 22. These programs can help students develop skills related to employment, independence, and future planning.
Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation can also often help cover the costs of special glasses, assistive devices, and other testing and services for older students.
Resources for Parents and Guardians
While managing a visual impairment comes with challenges, there are fortunately many resources to help. Here is a list of programs and organizations that offer assistance in navigating your child’s education:
- Indiana Department of Education—Special Education
- Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired
- ISBVI Outreach Services for students attending local schools
- Indiana Educational Resource Center for accessible textbooks and materials
- BOSMA Youth Employment Services
- Indiana Disability Rights education assistance
- The federal Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
Conclusion
I see children and adults from around the world who benefit from specialized low vision care right here at my offices in Indiana. So, call us at Midwest Low Vision at 877-577-2040, or reach out via our contact form, for advice on getting the help your child needs to see and function better. Thank you.