MO HB2089

Requires all blind and visually impaired students to receive Braille instruction as part of their individualized education plan when an assessment demonstrates the need for such instruction.

Defines eligible students as those who are blind or eligible for special education services for visually impaired, and prohibits denial of Braille instruction solely based on remaining vision.

Mandates that individualized education plans specify how Braille will be implemented as the primary learning mode, the start date for instruction, competency levels to be achieved, and session duration.

Requires teachers certified in educating blind and visually impaired children to demonstrate competence in reading and writing Braille, with assessment procedures consistent with National Library Service standards.

Establishes that the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education may provide the National Reading Media Assessment or another assessment by rule to determine Braille instruction needs.