AK SB8

School districts must provide parents of deaf or hard of hearing children with comprehensive, neutral information about hearing technology (hearing aids, cochlear implants, remote microphone systems), communication methods, available services, and support/advocacy resources

Parents retain the right to choose their child's communication method from options including listening and spoken language, bilingual approach (sign language and English), cued speech, or total communication

School districts must deliver services through professionals with training and experience in the parent's chosen communication method

The Department of Education must establish and operate a centralized statewide program for deaf students that includes residential services as part of the educational program

The centralized program may be operated by a school district under agreement with the department; the department will provide funding for students who attend, while the placing district retains special education responsibilities under state and federal law