HI HCR75

Request Department of Education to explore updating the school name from "Hawai'i School for the Deaf and the Blind" to "Hawai'i School for the Deaf" to reduce confusion about student enrollment.

School currently serves primarily students who are deaf or hard of hearing whose primary language is American Sign Language, not students who are blind.

Students who are blind in Hawaii attend mainstream schools in their local districts with support services from teachers of the visually impaired rather than attending this specialized school.

Request Department of Education to identify a separate office or section within the department to help students who are blind access appropriate resources and services, including Braille library resources, assistive devices, orientation and mobility services, and Braille training.

Requires certified copies of resolution be sent to the Superintendent of Education, school principal, school community council, Hawai'i Division of Vocational Rehabilitation administrator, and Hawai'i Association of the Blind.