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<DIV><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT> </DIV>
<DIV style="FONT: 10pt arial">----- Original Message -----
<DIV style="BACKGROUND: #e4e4e4; font-color: black"><B>From:</B> <A
title=ebridges@acb.org href="mailto:ebridges@acb.org">Eric Bridges</A> </DIV>
<DIV><B>To:</B> <A title=leadership@acb.org
href="mailto:leadership@acb.org">leadership@acb.org</A> ; <A
title=announce@acb.org href="mailto:announce@acb.org">announce@acb.org</A>
</DIV>
<DIV><B>Sent:</B> Wednesday, January 20, 2010 12:09 PM</DIV>
<DIV><B>Subject:</B> [leadership] Letter Opposing NCD Nominee's
Confirmation</DIV></DIV>
<DIV><FONT size=2 face=Arial></FONT><BR></DIV>
<DIV class=Section1>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Below is a letter that
ACB is supporting that has been signed on to by AFB, Council of Schools
for the Blind, NFB and deaf groups opposing the confirmation of Sara
Gelser to become a member of the National Council on Disability
(NCD). She lead the effort to close the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:PlaceName
w:st="on">Oregon</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType
w:st="on">School</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> for the Blind in 2009.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"> There will be
meetings on Capitol Hill and at the Whitehouse concerning her nomination.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Eric
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"> <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"> January 19,
2010
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P></DIV><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><BR
style="PAGE-BREAK-BEFORE: auto" clear=all></SPAN></FONT>
<DIV class=Section2>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">The Honorable Tom
Harkin<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Chair<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Senate Health,
Education, Labor and Pensions Committee<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><FONT
size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">U.S.</SPAN></FONT></st1:place></st1:country-region><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">
Senate<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:City w:st="on"><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Washington</SPAN></FONT></st1:City><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">, <st1:State
w:st="on">DC</st1:State> <st1:PostalCode
w:st="on">20510</st1:PostalCode></SPAN></FONT></st1:place><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">The Honorable Michael B.
Enzi<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Ranking
Member<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Senate Health,
Education, Labor and Pensions Committee<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><FONT
size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">U.S.</SPAN></FONT></st1:place></st1:country-region><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">
Senate<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:City w:st="on"><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Washington</SPAN></FONT></st1:City><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">, <st1:State
w:st="on">DC</st1:State> <st1:PostalCode
w:st="on">20510</st1:PostalCode></SPAN></FONT></st1:place><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P></DIV><FONT
size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><BR
style="PAGE-BREAK-BEFORE: auto" clear=all></SPAN></FONT>
<DIV class=Section3>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Dear Senator Harkin and
Senator Enzi:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">The undersigned
organizations write in opposition to the confirmation of Sara Gelser as a member
of the National Council on Disability. As Chair of the Oregon <FONT
color=#262626><SPAN style="COLOR: #262626">House Education Committee, in
2009</SPAN></FONT> Ms. Gelser spearheaded the closing of the <st1:place
w:st="on"><st1:PlaceName w:st="on">Oregon</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType
w:st="on">School</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> for the Blind (OSB). Parents
of students in that school passionately objected to the closure, citing the poor
education their children received in local schools before attending OSB and
their fears that their children would again be placed in an educational
environment ill-equipped to meet their children’s complex needs. Ms.
Gelser disregarded these concerns. The school is now closed, and parents’
fears are being realized. During a recent Oregon House Interim Committee
on Education hearing, parents and students testified that the students, who are
now placed in neighborhood schools, were not receiving Braille textbooks on
time, did not have access to the full complement of necessary classes, and
generally are experiencing a sense of isolation (Oregon State Legislature
Education Committee Hearing, November 19, 2009). <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">As a result of the lack
of services in their district, some families are attempting to have their
children placed in the <st1:PlaceName w:st="on">Washington</st1:PlaceName>
<st1:PlaceType w:st="on">State</st1:PlaceType> <st1:PlaceType
w:st="on">School</st1:PlaceType> for the Blind in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:City
w:st="on">Vancouver</st1:City>, <st1:State
w:st="on">Washington</st1:State></st1:place>. However, barriers are being
placed in their path. “(We're) waiting and want to get into the <st1:State
w:st="on">Washington</st1:State> school for the blind; every step of the way we
get blocked by the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:PlaceName
w:st="on">Gresham-Barlow</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType w:st="on">School
District</st1:PlaceType></st1:place>," parent Anita Kramer said (Hearing,
2009). Several complaints have been filed against school districts for
their alleged failure to provide a Free Appropriate Public Education to students
removed from OSB.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Schools for children
with sensory disabilities serve a distinctive role. Children who are blind
and children who are deaf have unique learning needs. Children who are
blind require instruction in and access to Braille, screen readers and other
technology, and orientation and mobility services. Children who are
deaf need an environment that addresses their language and communication
needs. Both groups need an educational setting that can support their
development of literacy skills. Schools for the blind and schools for the
deaf are designed to be the setting that supports development on all these
areas. Schools for the blind and schools for the deaf exist to ensure that
these children receive the education they need. That is why the Department
of Education includes a requirement for states to make available special schools
as a component of the continuum of alternative
placements: <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0.5in" class=RegsSection><FONT
color=black size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; TEXT-DECORATION: none"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0.5in"
class=RegsSection><FONT color=black size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="COLOR: windowtext; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; TEXT-DECORATION: none">Continuum of
alternative placements.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0.5in; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoBodyText><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="LAYOUT-GRID-MODE: line; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; TEXT-DECORATION: none"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0.5in; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoBodyText><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; TEXT-DECORATION: none">(a)
Each public agency must ensure that a continuum of alternative placements is
available to meet the needs of children with disabilities for special education
and related services.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="PAGE-BREAK-AFTER: avoid; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0.5in; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoBodyText><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; TEXT-DECORATION: none">(b)
The continuum required in paragraph (a) of this section
must—<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0.5in; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoBodyText><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; TEXT-DECORATION: none">(1)
Include the alternative placements listed in the definition of special education
under §300.38 (instruction in regular classes, special classes, <B><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">special schools,</SPAN></B> home instruction, and
instruction in hospitals and institutions); . . .<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in" class=MsoBodyText><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; TEXT-DECORATION: none"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in" class=MsoBodyText><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; TEXT-DECORATION: none">34
C.F.R. §300.115 (emphasis added)<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">A copy of the CEASD/COSB
position statement on schools for the deaf and schools for the blind is
attached.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Despite good intentions,
many school districts around the country simply do not have the body of
knowledge or resources needed to adequately educate these children.
Schools for the blind and schools for the deaf must continue to be
available. Confirming Ms. Gelser as a member of the National Council on
Disability would send a message that these schools don’t matter. Nothing
could be further from the truth.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Around the country
parents of students who are blind, deaf, or deaf-blind seek an educational
setting for their child that has the professional staff and resources needed to
provide their child a Free Appropriate Public Education. Public officials
should protect, not eliminate, appropriate educational placements for these
children. The National Council on Disability should not include members
that deny children with sensory disabilities access to special purpose
schools.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">If you have any
questions please contact Barbara Raimondo, Government Relations Liaison for the
Conference of Educational Administrators of Schools and Programs for the Deaf at
</SPAN></FONT><A href="mailto:baraimondo@me.com"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">baraimondo@me.com</SPAN></FONT></A><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"> or
301/792-2884. Thank you for your
consideration.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Respectfully,<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P></DIV><FONT
size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><BR
style="PAGE-BREAK-BEFORE: auto" clear=all></SPAN></FONT>
<DIV class=Section4>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">American Association of
the Deaf-Blind<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">American Council of the
Blind<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">American Foundation for
the Blind<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">American Society for
Deaf Children<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Association of
Late-Deafened Adults<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Conference of
Educational Administrators of Schools and Programs for the
Deaf<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Council of Schools for
the Blind <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Deaf Seniors of
<st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place
w:st="on">America</st1:place></st1:country-region><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:PlaceName w:st="on"><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Gallaudet</SPAN></FONT></st1:PlaceName><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">
<st1:PlaceType
w:st="on">University</st1:PlaceType></SPAN></FONT></st1:place><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"> Alumni
Association<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">National Association of
the Deaf<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">National Black Deaf
Advocates<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">National Deaf Business
Institute<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">National Federation of
the Blind<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P></DIV><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><BR
style="PAGE-BREAK-BEFORE: auto" clear=all></SPAN></FONT>
<DIV class=Section5></DIV><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><BR
style="PAGE-BREAK-BEFORE: auto" clear=all></SPAN></FONT>
<DIV class=Section6>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Attachment:
CEASD/COSB Joint Statement on Schools for the Deaf and Schools for the
Blind<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P></DIV><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><BR
style="PAGE-BREAK-BEFORE: always" clear=all></SPAN></FONT>
<DIV class=Section7><BR style="PAGE-BREAK-BEFORE: always" clear=all>
<P style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" class=MsoNormal align=center><B><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Conference
of Educational Administrators of</SPAN></FONT></B><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" class=MsoNormal align=center><B><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Schools
and Programs for the Deaf (CEASD)/<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" class=MsoNormal align=center><B><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Council
of Schools for the Blind (COSB) <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" class=MsoNormal align=center><B><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Joint
Statement on <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" class=MsoNormal align=center><B><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Schools
for the Deaf and Schools for the Blind<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">The recent downturn in
the economy has caused state legislatures to reduce expenditures in education
and other areas. As a result, several schools for the deaf and several
schools for the blind have closed or threatened with closure. While we
recognize that the economic crisis in this country is real, these actions raise
legal and human rights concerns.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Individuals
with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">IDEA requires public
agencies to ensure that a continuum of alternative placements is available to
meet the needs of children with disabilities for special education and related
services. The continuum includes “regular classes, special classes,
special schools, home instruction, and instruction in hospitals and
institutions.” 34 C.F.R. § 300.115. Schools for the deaf and schools
for the blind are schools required to be included in this
continuum.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">A child’s educational
placement is based on his Individualized Education Program (IEP), which is
developed by his teachers and parents, based on his needs. The IEP and
placement must be designed to provide the child a Free Appropriate Public
Education (FAPE). The placement must be in the Least Restrictive
Environment (LRE), and one in which the IEP can appropriately be
implemented. For many deaf and hard of hearing children and many blind and
visually impaired children the LRE is a specialized setting. According to
the United States Department of Education:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.25in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 22.5pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">Any setting which does
not meet the communication and related needs of a child who is deaf, and
therefore does not allow for the provision of FAPE, cannot be considered the LRE
for that child. The provision of FAPE is paramount, and the individual placement
determination about LRE is to be considered within the context of
FAPE.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.25in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 22.5pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.25in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 22.5pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoNormal><st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">U.S.</SPAN></FONT></st1:place></st1:country-region><FONT
size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"> Department of
Education. Deaf Students Education Services; Policy Guidance; Notice. 57
Fed. Reg. 49274 (October 30, 1992).<A style="mso-footnote-id: ftn1" title=""
href="#_ftn1" name=_ftnref1><SPAN class=MsoFootnoteReference><SUP><SPAN
class=MsoFootnoteReference><SUP><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">[1]</SPAN></FONT></SUP></SPAN></SUP></SPAN></A>
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.25in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 22.5pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.25in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0.5in; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">[S]ome [blind and
visually impaired] students have been inappropriately placed in the regular
classroom although it has been determined that their IEPs cannot be
appropriately implemented in the regular classroom even with the necessary and
appropriate supplementary aids and services. In these situations, the nature of
the student's disability and individual needs could make it appropriate for the
student to be placed in a setting outside of the regular classroom in order to
ensure that the student's IEP is satisfactorily
implemented.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.25in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0.5in; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.25in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0.5in; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoNormal><st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">U.S.</SPAN></FONT></st1:place></st1:country-region><FONT
size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"> Department of
Education. Educating Blind and Visually Impaired Students: Policy
Guidance from the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services.
65 Fed. Reg. 36586 (June 8, 2000)<A style="mso-footnote-id: ftn2" title=""
href="#_ftn2" name=_ftnref2><SPAN class=MsoFootnoteReference><SUP><SPAN
class=MsoFootnoteReference><SUP><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">[2]</SPAN></FONT></SUP></SPAN></SUP></SPAN></A><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">IDEA clearly requires
States to provide a continuum of alternative placements which includes provision
of services and supports in specialized schools for children who are deaf or
hard of hearing and children who are blind or visually
impaired.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; FONT-WEIGHT: bold">The
Human Rights of Deaf Children and Blind
Children<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">Given full access to
communication, deaf children and blind children can achieve at the level of
hearing, sighted peers. CEASD and COSB believe that deaf children and
blind children have fundamental human rights that must never be
attenuated. They have the right to: <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1" class=ListParagraph><![if !supportLists]><FONT size=2 face=Symbol><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<FONT size=1 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></FONT><![endif]><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">fluently receive and
express communication in the manner(s) best suited to their abilities
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1" class=ListParagraph><![if !supportLists]><FONT size=2 face=Symbol><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<FONT size=1 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></FONT><![endif]><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">be taught through
methods and approaches that are tailored to their
strengths<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1" class=ListParagraph><![if !supportLists]><FONT size=2 face=Symbol><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<FONT size=1 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></FONT><![endif]><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">learn from deaf or blind
role models, including teachers<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1" class=ListParagraph><![if !supportLists]><FONT size=2 face=Symbol><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<FONT size=1 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></FONT><![endif]><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">engage in the same
curriculum as hearing, sighted peers<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1" class=ListParagraph><![if !supportLists]><FONT size=2 face=Symbol><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<FONT size=1 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></FONT><![endif]><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">acquire the practical
skills and abilities needed to facilitate interaction with hearing, sighted
individuals in environments designed for hearing, sighted
people<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1" class=ListParagraph><![if !supportLists]><FONT size=2 face=Symbol><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<FONT size=1 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></FONT><![endif]><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">receive the services
necessary to help them succeed academically and socially and later, vocationally
or professionally<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1" class=ListParagraph><![if !supportLists]><FONT size=2 face=Symbol><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<FONT size=1 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></FONT><![endif]><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">have their families
become skilled in providing appropriate support.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">Schools for the deaf and
schools for the blind are critical to ensure that these rights are
protected. Efforts to close or restrict these schools violate the
fundamental human rights of these students.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">CEASD and COSB call on
the United States Department of Education, State and local departments of
education, the United States Congress, State and local legislatures, parents,
advocates, and interested parties nationwide to oppose any efforts to close or
restrict schools for the deaf or schools for the
blind.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face=Cambria><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-ALIGN: right" class=MsoNormal align=right><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">January
2010<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial; FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial; FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">January 19,
2010
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P></DIV><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><BR
style="PAGE-BREAK-BEFORE: auto" clear=all></SPAN></FONT>
<DIV class=Section8>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">The Honorable Tom
Harkin<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Chair<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Senate Health,
Education, Labor and Pensions Committee<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><FONT
size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">U.S.</SPAN></FONT></st1:place></st1:country-region><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">
Senate<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:City w:st="on"><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Washington</SPAN></FONT></st1:City><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">, <st1:State
w:st="on">DC</st1:State> <st1:PostalCode
w:st="on">20510</st1:PostalCode></SPAN></FONT></st1:place><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">The Honorable Michael B.
Enzi<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Ranking
Member<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Senate Health,
Education, Labor and Pensions Committee<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><FONT
size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">U.S.</SPAN></FONT></st1:place></st1:country-region><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">
Senate<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:City w:st="on"><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Washington</SPAN></FONT></st1:City><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">, <st1:State
w:st="on">DC</st1:State> <st1:PostalCode
w:st="on">20510</st1:PostalCode></SPAN></FONT></st1:place><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P></DIV><FONT
size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><BR
style="PAGE-BREAK-BEFORE: auto" clear=all></SPAN></FONT>
<DIV class=Section9>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Dear Senator Harkin and
Senator Enzi:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">The undersigned
organizations write in opposition to the confirmation of Sara Gelser as a member
of the National Council on Disability. As Chair of the Oregon <FONT
color=#262626><SPAN style="COLOR: #262626">House Education Committee, in
2009</SPAN></FONT> Ms. Gelser spearheaded the closing of the <st1:place
w:st="on"><st1:PlaceName w:st="on">Oregon</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType
w:st="on">School</st1:PlaceType></st1:place> for the Blind (OSB). Parents
of students in that school passionately objected to the closure, citing the poor
education their children received in local schools before attending OSB and
their fears that their children would again be placed in an educational
environment ill-equipped to meet their children’s complex needs. Ms.
Gelser disregarded these concerns. The school is now closed, and parents’
fears are being realized. During a recent Oregon House Interim Committee
on Education hearing, parents and students testified that the students, who are
now placed in neighborhood schools, were not receiving Braille textbooks on
time, did not have access to the full complement of necessary classes, and
generally are experiencing a sense of isolation (Oregon State Legislature
Education Committee Hearing, November 19, 2009). <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">As a result of the lack
of services in their district, some families are attempting to have their
children placed in the <st1:PlaceName w:st="on">Washington</st1:PlaceName>
<st1:PlaceType w:st="on">State</st1:PlaceType> <st1:PlaceType
w:st="on">School</st1:PlaceType> for the Blind in <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:City
w:st="on">Vancouver</st1:City>, <st1:State
w:st="on">Washington</st1:State></st1:place>. However, barriers are being
placed in their path. “(We're) waiting and want to get into the <st1:State
w:st="on">Washington</st1:State> school for the blind; every step of the way we
get blocked by the <st1:place w:st="on"><st1:PlaceName
w:st="on">Gresham-Barlow</st1:PlaceName> <st1:PlaceType w:st="on">School
District</st1:PlaceType></st1:place>," parent Anita Kramer said (Hearing,
2009). Several complaints have been filed against school districts for
their alleged failure to provide a Free Appropriate Public Education to students
removed from OSB.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Schools for children
with sensory disabilities serve a distinctive role. Children who are blind
and children who are deaf have unique learning needs. Children who are
blind require instruction in and access to Braille, screen readers and other
technology, and orientation and mobility services. Children who are
deaf need an environment that addresses their language and communication
needs. Both groups need an educational setting that can support their
development of literacy skills. Schools for the blind and schools for the
deaf are designed to be the setting that supports development on all these
areas. Schools for the blind and schools for the deaf exist to ensure that
these children receive the education they need. That is why the Department
of Education includes a requirement for states to make available special schools
as a component of the continuum of alternative
placements: <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0.5in" class=RegsSection><FONT
color=black size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt; TEXT-DECORATION: none"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="LINE-HEIGHT: normal; TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0.5in"
class=RegsSection><FONT color=black size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="COLOR: windowtext; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; TEXT-DECORATION: none">Continuum of
alternative placements.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0.5in; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoBodyText><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="LAYOUT-GRID-MODE: line; FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; TEXT-DECORATION: none"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0.5in; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoBodyText><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; TEXT-DECORATION: none">(a)
Each public agency must ensure that a continuum of alternative placements is
available to meet the needs of children with disabilities for special education
and related services.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="PAGE-BREAK-AFTER: avoid; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0.5in; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoBodyText><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; TEXT-DECORATION: none">(b)
The continuum required in paragraph (a) of this section
must—<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in; MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.5in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0.5in; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoBodyText><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; TEXT-DECORATION: none">(1)
Include the alternative placements listed in the definition of special education
under §300.38 (instruction in regular classes, special classes, <B><SPAN
style="FONT-WEIGHT: bold">special schools,</SPAN></B> home instruction, and
instruction in hospitals and institutions); . . .<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in" class=MsoBodyText><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; TEXT-DECORATION: none"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-INDENT: 0.5in" class=MsoBodyText><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; TEXT-DECORATION: none">34
C.F.R. §300.115 (emphasis added)<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">A copy of the CEASD/COSB
position statement on schools for the deaf and schools for the blind is
attached.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Despite good intentions,
many school districts around the country simply do not have the body of
knowledge or resources needed to adequately educate these children.
Schools for the blind and schools for the deaf must continue to be
available. Confirming Ms. Gelser as a member of the National Council on
Disability would send a message that these schools don’t matter. Nothing
could be further from the truth.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Around the country
parents of students who are blind, deaf, or deaf-blind seek an educational
setting for their child that has the professional staff and resources needed to
provide their child a Free Appropriate Public Education. Public officials
should protect, not eliminate, appropriate educational placements for these
children. The National Council on Disability should not include members
that deny children with sensory disabilities access to special purpose
schools.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">If you have any
questions please contact Barbara Raimondo, Government Relations Liaison for the
Conference of Educational Administrators of Schools and Programs for the Deaf at
</SPAN></FONT><A href="mailto:baraimondo@me.com"><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">baraimondo@me.com</SPAN></FONT></A><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"> or
301/792-2884. Thank you for your
consideration.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Respectfully,<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P></DIV><FONT
size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><BR
style="PAGE-BREAK-BEFORE: auto" clear=all></SPAN></FONT>
<DIV class=Section10>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">American Association of
the Deaf-Blind<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">American Council of the
Blind<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">American Foundation for
the Blind<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">American Society for
Deaf Children<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Association of
Late-Deafened Adults<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Conference of
Educational Administrators of Schools and Programs for the
Deaf<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Council of Schools for
the Blind <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Deaf Seniors of
<st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place
w:st="on">America</st1:place></st1:country-region><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><st1:place w:st="on"><st1:PlaceName w:st="on"><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Gallaudet</SPAN></FONT></st1:PlaceName><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'">
<st1:PlaceType
w:st="on">University</st1:PlaceType></SPAN></FONT></st1:place><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"> Alumni
Association<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">National Association of
the Deaf<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">National Black Deaf
Advocates<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">National Deaf Business
Institute<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">National Federation of
the Blind<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P></DIV><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><BR
style="PAGE-BREAK-BEFORE: auto" clear=all></SPAN></FONT>
<DIV class=Section11></DIV><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><BR
style="PAGE-BREAK-BEFORE: auto" clear=all></SPAN></FONT>
<DIV class=Section12>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt">Attachment:
CEASD/COSB Joint Statement on Schools for the Deaf and Schools for the
Blind<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P></DIV><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><BR
style="PAGE-BREAK-BEFORE: always" clear=all></SPAN></FONT>
<DIV class=Section13><BR style="PAGE-BREAK-BEFORE: always" clear=all>
<P style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" class=MsoNormal align=center><B><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Conference
of Educational Administrators of</SPAN></FONT></B><FONT
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'"><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" class=MsoNormal align=center><B><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Schools
and Programs for the Deaf (CEASD)/<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" class=MsoNormal align=center><B><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Council
of Schools for the Blind (COSB) <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" class=MsoNormal align=center><B><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Joint
Statement on <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P style="TEXT-ALIGN: center" class=MsoNormal align=center><B><FONT size=3
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt; FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Schools
for the Deaf and Schools for the Blind<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">The recent downturn in
the economy has caused state legislatures to reduce expenditures in education
and other areas. As a result, several schools for the deaf and several
schools for the blind have closed or threatened with closure. While we
recognize that the economic crisis in this country is real, these actions raise
legal and human rights concerns.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; FONT-WEIGHT: bold">Individuals
with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">IDEA requires public
agencies to ensure that a continuum of alternative placements is available to
meet the needs of children with disabilities for special education and related
services. The continuum includes “regular classes, special classes,
special schools, home instruction, and instruction in hospitals and
institutions.” 34 C.F.R. § 300.115. Schools for the deaf and schools
for the blind are schools required to be included in this
continuum.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">A child’s educational
placement is based on his Individualized Education Program (IEP), which is
developed by his teachers and parents, based on his needs. The IEP and
placement must be designed to provide the child a Free Appropriate Public
Education (FAPE). The placement must be in the Least Restrictive
Environment (LRE), and one in which the IEP can appropriately be
implemented. For many deaf and hard of hearing children and many blind and
visually impaired children the LRE is a specialized setting. According to
the United States Department of Education:<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.25in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 22.5pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">Any setting which does
not meet the communication and related needs of a child who is deaf, and
therefore does not allow for the provision of FAPE, cannot be considered the LRE
for that child. The provision of FAPE is paramount, and the individual placement
determination about LRE is to be considered within the context of
FAPE.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.25in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 22.5pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.25in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 22.5pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoNormal><st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">U.S.</SPAN></FONT></st1:place></st1:country-region><FONT
size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"> Department of
Education. Deaf Students Education Services; Policy Guidance; Notice. 57
Fed. Reg. 49274 (October 30, 1992).<A style="mso-footnote-id: ftn3" title=""
href="#_ftn3" name=_ftnref3><SPAN class=MsoFootnoteReference><SUP><SPAN
class=MsoFootnoteReference><SUP><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">[3]</SPAN></FONT></SUP></SPAN></SUP></SPAN></A>
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.25in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 22.5pt; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.25in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0.5in; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">[S]ome [blind and
visually impaired] students have been inappropriately placed in the regular
classroom although it has been determined that their IEPs cannot be
appropriately implemented in the regular classroom even with the necessary and
appropriate supplementary aids and services. In these situations, the nature of
the student's disability and individual needs could make it appropriate for the
student to be placed in a setting outside of the regular classroom in order to
ensure that the student's IEP is satisfactorily
implemented.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.25in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0.5in; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P
style="MARGIN-BOTTOM: 0pt; MARGIN-LEFT: 0.25in; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0.5in; mso-margin-top-alt: 0in"
class=MsoNormal><st1:country-region w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">U.S.</SPAN></FONT></st1:place></st1:country-region><FONT
size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"> Department of
Education. Educating Blind and Visually Impaired Students: Policy
Guidance from the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services.
65 Fed. Reg. 36586 (June 8, 2000)<A style="mso-footnote-id: ftn4" title=""
href="#_ftn4" name=_ftnref4><SPAN class=MsoFootnoteReference><SUP><SPAN
class=MsoFootnoteReference><SUP><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">[4]</SPAN></FONT></SUP></SPAN></SUP></SPAN></A><o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">IDEA clearly requires
States to provide a continuum of alternative placements which includes provision
of services and supports in specialized schools for children who are deaf or
hard of hearing and children who are blind or visually
impaired.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><B><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt; FONT-WEIGHT: bold">The
Human Rights of Deaf Children and Blind
Children<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></B></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">Given full access to
communication, deaf children and blind children can achieve at the level of
hearing, sighted peers. CEASD and COSB believe that deaf children and
blind children have fundamental human rights that must never be
attenuated. They have the right to: <o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1" class=ListParagraph><![if !supportLists]><FONT size=2 face=Symbol><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<FONT size=1 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></FONT><![endif]><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">fluently receive and
express communication in the manner(s) best suited to their abilities
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1" class=ListParagraph><![if !supportLists]><FONT size=2 face=Symbol><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<FONT size=1 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></FONT><![endif]><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">be taught through
methods and approaches that are tailored to their
strengths<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1" class=ListParagraph><![if !supportLists]><FONT size=2 face=Symbol><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<FONT size=1 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></FONT><![endif]><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">learn from deaf or blind
role models, including teachers<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1" class=ListParagraph><![if !supportLists]><FONT size=2 face=Symbol><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<FONT size=1 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></FONT><![endif]><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">engage in the same
curriculum as hearing, sighted peers<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1" class=ListParagraph><![if !supportLists]><FONT size=2 face=Symbol><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<FONT size=1 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></FONT><![endif]><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">acquire the practical
skills and abilities needed to facilitate interaction with hearing, sighted
individuals in environments designed for hearing, sighted
people<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1" class=ListParagraph><![if !supportLists]><FONT size=2 face=Symbol><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<FONT size=1 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></FONT><![endif]><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">receive the services
necessary to help them succeed academically and socially and later, vocationally
or professionally<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-INDENT: -0.25in; mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1" class=ListParagraph><![if !supportLists]><FONT size=2 face=Symbol><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Symbol; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN
style="mso-list: Ignore">·<FONT size=1 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT: 7pt 'Times New Roman'">
</SPAN></FONT></SPAN></SPAN></FONT><![endif]><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">have their families
become skilled in providing appropriate support.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">Schools for the deaf and
schools for the blind are critical to ensure that these rights are
protected. Efforts to close or restrict these schools violate the
fundamental human rights of these students.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">CEASD and COSB call on
the United States Department of Education, State and local departments of
education, the United States Congress, State and local legislatures, parents,
advocates, and interested parties nationwide to oppose any efforts to close or
restrict schools for the deaf or schools for the
blind.<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face=Cambria><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P style="TEXT-ALIGN: right" class=MsoNormal align=right><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">January
2010<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=3 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoNormal><FONT size=2 face=Arial><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: Arial; FONT-SIZE: 10pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P></DIV>
<DIV style="mso-element: footnote-list"><BR clear=all>
<HR align=left SIZE=1 width="33%">
<DIV style="mso-element: footnote" id=ftn1>
<P class=MsoFootnoteText><A style="mso-footnote-id: ftn1" title=""
href="#_ftnref1" name=_ftn1><SPAN class=MsoFootnoteReference><SUP><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN
class=MsoFootnoteReference><SUP><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">[1]</SPAN></FONT></SUP></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SUP></SPAN></A><FONT
size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"> Congress later
incorporated this Policy Guidance into IDEA, which now states that in the case
of a child who is deaf or hard of hearing, the IEP Team shall consider the
child’s language and communication needs, opportunities for direct
communications with peers and professional personnel in the child’s language and
communication mode, academic level, and full range of needs, including
opportunities for direct instruction in the child’s language and communication
mode. 20 U.S.C. 1414(d)(3)(B)(iv).</SPAN></FONT></P></DIV>
<DIV style="mso-element: footnote" id=ftn2>
<P class=MsoFootnoteText><A style="mso-footnote-id: ftn2" title=""
href="#_ftnref2" name=_ftn2><SPAN class=MsoFootnoteReference><SUP><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN
class=MsoFootnoteReference><SUP><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">[2]</SPAN></FONT></SUP></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SUP></SPAN></A><FONT
size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"> This Policy Guidance
also makes clear that factors that should be considered in the development of
the IEP are Braille literacy skills, assistive technology, orientation and
mobility services, social interaction skills, recreation and leisure skills,
career education, independent living skills, and visual efficiency skills.
All of these are necessary to optimize self-determination.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoFootnoteText><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoFootnoteText><FONT size=3 face=Cambria><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P></DIV>
<DIV style="mso-element: footnote" id=ftn3>
<P class=MsoFootnoteText><A style="mso-footnote-id: ftn3" title=""
href="#_ftnref3" name=_ftn3><SPAN class=MsoFootnoteReference><SUP><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN
class=MsoFootnoteReference><SUP><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">[3]</SPAN></FONT></SUP></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SUP></SPAN></A><FONT
size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"> Congress later
incorporated this Policy Guidance into IDEA, which now states that in the case
of a child who is deaf or hard of hearing, the IEP Team shall consider the
child’s language and communication needs, opportunities for direct
communications with peers and professional personnel in the child’s language and
communication mode, academic level, and full range of needs, including
opportunities for direct instruction in the child’s language and communication
mode. 20 U.S.C. 1414(d)(3)(B)(iv).</SPAN></FONT></P></DIV>
<DIV style="mso-element: footnote" id=ftn4>
<P class=MsoFootnoteText><A style="mso-footnote-id: ftn4" title=""
href="#_ftnref4" name=_ftn4><SPAN class=MsoFootnoteReference><SUP><FONT size=2
face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><SPAN
class=MsoFootnoteReference><SUP><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt">[4]</SPAN></FONT></SUP></SPAN></SPAN></FONT></SUP></SPAN></A><FONT
size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"> This Policy Guidance
also makes clear that factors that should be considered in the development of
the IEP are Braille literacy skills, assistive technology, orientation and
mobility services, social interaction skills, recreation and leisure skills,
career education, independent living skills, and visual efficiency skills.
All of these are necessary to optimize self-determination.
<o:p></o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoFootnoteText><FONT size=2 face="Times New Roman"><SPAN
style="FONT-FAMILY: 'Times New Roman'; FONT-SIZE: 11pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P>
<P class=MsoFootnoteText><FONT size=3 face=Cambria><SPAN
style="FONT-SIZE: 12pt"><o:p> </o:p></SPAN></FONT></P></DIV></DIV>
<P>
<HR>
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