Author: BEARadvocacy

We provide consultation and advocacy for blind/low vision individuals seeking accessible resources in education and employment. We support employers, parents, educators, and others in providing appropriate services that will allow all individuals to achieve independence and self-fulfillment.

BWE (Blind Work Expense) Deductions for SSI

BEARadvocacy

Note: BWE items do not have to be related to your blindness.

Note: The worker must have paid the expense in order for it to be a BWE deduction.

Categories

  • Transportation to and from work
  • Federal, State, and Local income taxes and Social Security and Medicare taxes
  • Meals consumed during work hours (purchased or prepared at home)
  • Job-related fees, such as licenses, professional dues, union dues
  • Mandatory work contributions, such as pension contributions
  • Other work-related equipment/services, such as braille materials, accessible technology
  • Dog Guide expenses
  • Drugs and medicines
  • Medical devices, supplies, and services/therapies
  • Non-medical equipment/services, such as tools used on the job, uniforms, etc.
  • Training to use an impairment-related item or an item that is reasonably attributable to work, such as instruction in braille, cane use, use of technology, etc.  
  • Structural modifications to the individual’s home to create a workspace or to allow the individual to get to and from work
  • Vehicle modification
  • Prosthesis
  • Attendant care services (restrictions apply)

References

Download available

BEAR’s SSI Exclusions Calculation Spreadsheet (two worksheets: SSI Calculation & BWE Calculation)

ABLE Accounts

BEARadvocacy

Updated as of January 9, 2024.

Outline

What Are ABLE Accounts?

Benefits of ABLE Accounts

Eligibility for an ABLE Account

How Can ABLE Account Funds Be Spent?

How Much Money Can Go into an ABLE Account?

How Do I Set Up an ABLE Account?

What Else Should I Know About ABLE Accounts?

Words of Warning About ABLE Accounts

Contact the BEAR for More Information

What Are ABLE Accounts?

ABLE stands for Achieving a Better Life Experience. ABLE accounts are specifically designed to allow qualifying individuals with disabilities to save money without losing eligibility for government benefits. ABLE accounts provide an inexpensive and uncomplicated way to save funds for many individuals with disabilities.

Before ABLE accounts became available, “special needs trusts” (SNTs) were the primary means of saving for disability-related expenses while remaining eligible for programs like SSI. ABLE accounts are easier and less expensive to set up and maintain than SNTs, and they provide additional benefits in terms of management and use of funds for housing and food. However, SNTs are still useful, and a person may have both an ABLE account and an SNT.

Benefits of ABLE Accounts

Savings without the loss of SSI and other benefits

Tax-free earnings and distributions

Gifts made to the ABLE account are not included as income for SSI

Tax benefits for contributions to ABLE accounts available in some states

Not included on your FAFSA

Savings without the loss of SSI and other benefits

There are very specific rules for SSI eligibility regarding both income and resources. Distributions from ABLE accounts are generally excluded for SSI income, and funds in ABLE accounts (up to $100,000) are generally excluded from SSI resource limits.

Tax-free earnings and distributions

ABLE accounts can be invested and earn interest, dividends, and capital gains on those investments. Typically, these funds would be subject to income taxes the year they occur. In ABLE accounts, those earnings are not taxed as they are earned; they grow tax-free. When you take money out of the ABLE account, there will be no tax as long as the distributions are used for Qualified Disability Expenses (QDE).  

Gifts made to the ABLE account are not included as income for SSI

Income (both earned and unearned) can adversely impact an individual’s eligibility for Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Even gifts for birthdays, graduation, etc. can reduce or eliminate your monthly SSI payment in the month you receive them. However, gifts made DIRECTLY to an ABLE account are not considered income. Thus, you might choose to ask that cash gifts be made directly to your ABLE account (and cannot exceed the annual contribution limit for the ABLE Account owner.

In fact, the Pennsylvania ABLE program provides you with a unique code that you can share with family and friends. Using this code, individuals can send money directly to your ABLE account. These transfers are applied to your annual contribution limit ($18,000 in 2024) and your total account limit ($100,000 for SSI eligibility), but any person may make a contribution to your ABLE account, no matter what state the gift-giver lives in. Again, to avoid SSI income limitations, the gift must be made directly to the ABLE account.

Tax benefits for contributions to ABLE accounts available in some states

In addition to the benefits listed above, some states offer some level of tax deduction for ABLE account contributions. For example, in Pennsylvania, each ABLE account contributor may deduct up to $18,000 from Pennsylvania income taxes for ABLE account contributions. While this does not impact federal income taxes, a Pennsylvania resident who contributes $18,000 to an ABLE account will enjoy tax savings of $552.60 (3.07% of $18,000).

Note that this deduction is only available to Pennsylvania residents who contribute to a Pennsylvania ABLE account.

Other states offer state income tax deductions, but not all do. Please reach out to us at BEAR or check the ABLE National Resource Center for more information.

Not included on your FAFSA

ABLE account funds are not counted on your FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid). This is a significant benefit and can increase the chances that the ABLE account owner will qualify for financial aid.

In contrast, “529 plans,” popular savings plans for college not tied to disability ARE counted in determining eligibility for financial aid. However, 529 plans can be “rolled over” into an ABLE account, so long as the annual contribution limit ($18,000 in 2024) is not exceeded.

Eligibility for an ABLE Account

Disability

Age of disability onset

Authorized to open the account

Disability

  • Must meet the Social Security definition of disability
    • If you receive SSI or SSDI and meet the age of onset requirement, you are qualified.
    • If you would qualify for SSI or SSDI based on disability (but do not meet other requirements for those programs, such as income and resource limits)
  • Alternatively, a person will qualify for an ABLE account if that person “has filed a valid disability certification with the Secretary of the Treasury” for the current tax year

Age of disability onset

  • Must have met the disability requirement before reaching the age of 26
  • If older than 26, must prove that disability occurred before 26th birthday
  • Note: in January of 2026, the maximum age of onset for ABLE account eligibility rises to 46

Authorized to open the account

  • A beneficiary age 18 or older OR
  • An Authorized Legal Representative (ALR) for the beneficiary
    • If the beneficiary is older than 18, must be an individual who has been appointed as “Power of Attorney, Legal Guardian, or Conservator for the Beneficiary.
    • Can be a parent if the beneficiary is younger than 18

How Can ABLE Account Funds Be Spent?

Qualified Disability Expenses (QDEs)

Getting money out of your ABLE account

ABLE distributions are not income

Qualified Disability Expenses (QDEs)

ABLE account funds can be spent on a wide variety of items, such as:

  • Education
  • Housing
  • Transportation
  • Employment training and support
  • Assistive technology and related services
  • Personal support services
  • Health
  • Prevention and wellness
  • Financial management and administrative services
  • Legal fees
  • Expenses for ABLE account oversight and monitoring
  • Funeral and burial
  • Basic living expenses

Expenses that fit into any of these categories are considered qualified disability expenses (QDEs). ABLE account distributions for QDEs are tax-free and do not affect SSI eligibility.

Getting money out of your ABLE account

Different state ABLE accounts provide different ways of withdrawing your ABLE funds for QDEs. Most plans offer withdrawals by check and electronic transfer to a bank. The Pennsylvania ABLE account offers several methods for withdrawing funds, including electronic transfers to a bank account or for automatic bill pay, paper withdrawal form, debit card, and checks. Please note that some of these methods have fees associated with them, so you’ll want to determine which method is best for you.

ABLE distributions are not income

There are strict limits on the amount of income an individual can receive while receiving SSI. However, distributions from an ABLE account are not included as income. It doesn’t matter whether it is a qualified distribution or not; ABLE account distributions are NOT income for SSI purposes.

SSI considers ABLE account distributions a change in resources. The rules are quite specific and the type of expense is part of the determination of whether the distribution counts as an SSI resource.

How Much Money Can Go into an ABLE Account?

Annual limit

Special additional annual contributions

Total limit

Annual limit

All ABLE accounts have an annual contribution limit ($18,000 in 2024). You may contribute less than this amount, but you may not contribute more in a single year. This amount is tied to federal gift tax exemption, and it does increase by $1,000 every few years.

Special additional annual contributions

In addition to the annual limit (currently $18,000), some ABLE account owners may make additional annual contributions under the ABLE to Work Act. The additional contributions are permitted when the ABLE account owner is employed and is not participating in an employer-sponsored retirement plan. That working individual may contribute an additional amount equal to the lesser of that person’s gross income that year or the federal poverty level (in 2024, $14,580 in Pennsylvania and most other states). In other words, an individual with an ABLE account can save up to $14,580 in addition to the $18,000 annual contribution limit per year.

Total limit

ABLE accounts can exceed $100,000. For example, the account limit for Pennsylvania ABLE plans is $511,758.

However, for purposes of SSI eligibility, only $100,000 of the funds in an ABLE account are excluded from resources. Amounts over $100,000 will count toward resources (which are capped at $2,000 for individuals) for SSI eligibility determinations.

How Do I Set Up an ABLE Account?

Follow this link to set up a Pennsylvania ABLE account online. Alternatively, you may download and complete the PA ABLE paper enrollment form and mail it to the address set forth on the form. You may also contact the  PA ABLE Plan office by phone at (855) 529-ABLE(2253).

To complete either form, you’ll need some information:

  • Date of birth
  • Address
  • Social Security Number for the beneficiary and Authorized Legal Representative (if any)
  • Email address (one – will be used for all PA ABLE communications)
  • Decision about investment options (PA ABLE account investment options information)
  • Bank account information (if electronic funds transfer will be used to fund the account)

If there is an ALR for a beneficiary over age 18, you’ll also need documentation of Power of Attorney, Legal Guardianship, or Conservatorship. If you want to transfer funds from a bank account electronically, you’ll want to have that bank information as well.

What Else Should I Know About ABLE Accounts?

Where can I set up an ABLE account?

How many ABLE accounts may I have?

Investment options available

There are minimums and fees

Where can I set up an ABLE account?

Forty-four states, including Pennsylvania, offer ABLE accounts, but you do not need to open an ABLE account in the state you live in. Seventeen states do require that you be a resident in order to set up an ABLE account under their program. However, the remaining 27 states, including Pennsylvania, permit any qualified person to open an ABLE account regardless of residency.

How many ABLE accounts may I have?

No. Each qualified person may only have ONE ABLE account. If you have an ABLE account with one state and want to transfer it to another state, this is permitted, and the ABLE program staff should be able to help you do this.

Investment options available

ABLE accounts offer investment options so that your contributions will increase in value. This growth is tax-free. Different state programs offer different investment choices.

In Pennsylvania, you may choose to leave the funds in an interest-bearing checking account or choose one or more of six investment options.

There are minimums and fees

ABLE accounts cost money to administer. Also, programs may have minimum requirements for setting up an account and for contributions. However, these minimums are usually quite low.

In Pennsylvania, fees and minimums are as follows:

  • Annual account fee: $59 (billed at $14.75 per quarter)
    • Fee lowered to $34 per year ($8.50 per quarter if you choose only electronic delivery of quarterly statements and account updates)
  • Initial contribution minimum: $25
  • Minimum contribution (after initial): $25
  • Fees for investments (mutual funds): Annual fee of between 0.30% and 0.33% of fund value
  • Fee for checking account option: $2 per month; waived if (1) you choose electronic delivery of account information and (2) maintain a minimum deposit of $250 each month.

Words of Warning About ABLE Accounts

Risk of asset forfeiture upon death

College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile

Using ABLE funds for unqualified purposes

Risk of asset forfeiture upon death

If an ABLE account owner dies with money remaining in the ABLE account, a state may file a claim for repayment of medical assistance provided to the ABLE account owner. The state may only make claims for medical assistance provided after the ABLE account was created, and the state cannot claim more money than is in the account.

In Pennsylvania, this is not a major concern at this time.

  • Pennsylvania law prohibits claims directly against any PA ABLE account.
  • Claims against the PA ABLE account proceeds in an estate are limited to estates of individuals over 55 years old (there are additional limitations as well).
  • This will apply only to a small number of persons right now. However, it is something to consider for ABLE account beneficiaries who are close to or older than age 55.

College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile

While ABLE accounts are not considered assets for college financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form, the same rules do not apply to the College Scholarship Service (CSS) Profile, a private financial aid tool administered by the College Board that charges a fee to use. The CSS Profile counts ABLE accounts as assets. If you are considering applying to a school that requires the CSS Profile, it is advisable to call the Admissions Office to discuss this matter.

Using ABLE funds for unqualified purposes

If you use ABLE funds for expenses that are not qualified [more information at How Can ABLE Account Funds Be Spent?], those distributions will be taxable as income, and there is an additional 10% penalty for distributions not used for qualified disability expenses (QDEs). This can reduce the amount of money available, so it is useful to ensure that you spend your ABLE distributions on QDEs.

Contact the BEAR for More Information

Internships!

BEARadvocacy

Forward Focus February

February may be the shortest month of the year, but that just means that we need to pack it FULL! This month we share resources to help us maintain a Forward Focus in February.

In this third installment of our “Forward Focus February” series, we check out some internships and job opportunities that may be of interest. Also, even if you are not seeking an internship or summer job this year, it’s great to know what is available!

DORS-sponsored programs

Maryland students have a tremendous resource in the Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) and its Office of Blindness & Vision Services (OBVS). In addition to providing needed tools and technology for individuals with disabilities, DORS provides employment-related support. In fact, the title of the DORS web page is: “DORS: Helping Marylanders With Disabilities Go To Work”

DORS supports several agencies and non-profits in providing work-based learning experiences (WBLEs). These are (typically summer) programs where you receive training and coaching and where you get to have part-time PAID jobs. While the details of these programs have not yet been finalized, it’s never too early to make sure that you have an open case with DORS and are communicating with your DORS counselor. 

If you know your DORS counselor:

  • Contact your DORS counselor about what you would like for the summer. If you don’t know exactly what you want, talk with your DORS counselor about what might be available that would meet your needs.

If you don’t know whether you have an open case with DORS:

  • Contact DORS directly and ask. Find more information on the Request DORS Services webpage.
  • The Free Bridges Helpdesk is happy to help. Please reach out to us, and we can help you with finding out who to contact and/or with contacting that individual.

If you know you don’t have a case with DORS yet:

Please reach out to the Free Bridges Helpdesk. We look forward to discussing any of these matters with you, and we’re happy to connect you with Muttasim Fadl, the Transition Specialist for OBVS/DORS.

Other Internships For Maryland Students

NASA Internships

Description:

  • These paid internships are offered across NASA facilities in fall, spring, and summer sessions.
  • One application is viewed agencywide.
  • Interns may receive a stipend based on academic level and session length.

Eligibility:

  • U.S. Citizens
  • Minimum 3.0 GPA (grade point average)
  • Opportunities are available at the high school, undergraduate, graduate, and educator levels
  • Prior experience is not required

Location:

Application deadline:

  • Early March
  • Apply soon!

Prerequisite:

Internships for Students Already in College

Accessible Pharmacy

Description:

  • Paid internship
  • Get hands-on experience with the following:
    • Healthcare & medication management
    • Sales
    • Market research
    • Customer service
    • Quality assurance
    • Writing

Eligibility:

  • Enrolled in a college or university
  • Be blind or have low vision
  • Work from home
  • Must be outgoing
  • Must feel comfortable speaking on the phone with clients, patients and our pharmacy team

Location:

Application deadline:

  • None stated, but don’t wait

AFB Talent Lab Internship Information webpage

Description:

  • A fully remote and flexible program consisting of nine terms completed over the course of three years. You may participate in one, multiple, or all nine terms.
  • Participants are expected to participate fully in all aspects of the program, including foundational coursework, independent and team-oriented client projects, and meetings with program mentors and supervisors.
  • Participants represent the AFB and, as a result, are required to adhere to the highest professional and ethical standards while participating in the program.

Work Requirements:

  • Participants should expect to be engaged with program coursework, projects, or other activities for a certain number of hours each week depending on the term:
    • For Summer sessions, expect to work about 25-30 hours each week.
    • For Spring & Fall sessions, expect to work about 6-10 hours each week.

Eligibility:

  • Currently enrolled full-time in college or another higher education program
  • Studying computer science or a related field
  • Be a rising sophomore, junior, or senior
  • Have a recommendation from a professor or instructor

Application deadlines:

AFB Talent Lab Apprenticeship Information webpage

Description:

  • A fully remote, full-time program (35 hours per week) lasting two years.
  • Participate fully in all aspects of the program, including foundational coursework, independent and team-oriented client projects, and meetings with program mentors and supervisors.
  • Participants represent the AFB and, as a result, are required to adhere to the highest professional and ethical standards while participating in the program.

Eligibility:

  • Be able to work full-time for 2 years to complete the program
  • Be skilled at using Assistive Technologies, such as screen readers or magnification, etc.
  • Have an interest in pursuing digital inclusion through product testing and management.
  • Provide a professional resume
  • Provide a professional letter of recommendation, such as from a colleague or a supervisor.
  • Provide a writing sample of approximately 500 words in length.

Application deadline:

  • “The next cohort of the AFB Talent Lab Apprenticeship is currently expected to begin in January 2024 with applications reopening later in 2023. Please continue to check [Apply to Join the AFB Talent Lab] page for updates on application dates and deadlines.”

More information:

Internships for the Summer of 2024

NLS Aspiring Leaders Internship Program

NLS (the National Library Service)

Description:

  • The program runs during the summer, between 12 to 15 weeks.
  • Under the guidance of mentors, interns work on selected tasks and projects within one of the five main divisions of NLS: the Office of the Director, Business Operations Division, Collections Division, Patron and Network Engagement Division, and Program Delivery Division.

Eligibility:

  • Currently enrolled undergraduate and graduate students and those who have graduated within the past five years from an accredited two-year or four-year college or university are eligible to apply.

Application deadline:

  • Deadline for summer internships is typically in November of the prior year

Contact us

Follow the Bridges Helpdesk Facebook page for more transition tips, and please contact the Bridges Technical Assistance Center’s Free Helpdesk for Maryland Blind/Low Vision Transition Students, Families, and Educators anytime using:

This unique project is being coordinated through The IMAGE Center of Maryland, a center for independent living in Towson, and it is funded by a grant from the Maryland Department of Education Division of Special Education/Early Intervention Services.

Tactile Graphics!

BEARadvocacy

We often hear, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” and, in many cases, it is. However, many blind/low vision individuals cannot effectively, efficiently, and sustainably access pictures. In many cases, pictures are simply left out of their materials, or, if they’re lucky, they might get a short “alt text” description of the picture.

Alt text — not an alternative in many cases

Now, alt text is great, and I’m all for it — when it is appropriate. Here’s the test: Alt text is appropriate when you can remove the picture for EVERYONE and replace it with the alt text. (Of course, if you could replace the picture with words, why didn’t you do so in the first place? But I digress …)

In many, many cases, especially in education, business, and governmental matters, the pictures/graphics used cannot simply be replaced by a few words — or even a thousand words. The picture/graphic IS worth far more than one thousand words.

If that’s the case, what are we to do for blind/low vision individuals? Shall we simply wash our hands of our ethical (and legal) duties to provide access to the information contained in those graphics?

Tactile graphics are an answer

No, because we have TACTILE GRAPHICS! What are tactile graphics? Well, they are tactile representations of graphical information. Here are some fast facts about tactile graphics:

  1. They can open the doors of information and imagination just like pictures do for the sighted. And many fully sighted individuals enjoy accessing this information tactilely — I know I do.
  2. Tactile graphics can be as simple or as complex as is needed to convey the information provided by the visual graphic.
  3. Making tactile graphics can be fun and empowering — even for craft-challenged people like me.
  4. Many, many high-quality tactile graphics are at NO COST (except for the materials needed to create the tactile graphic).
  5. Learning to read tactile graphics is not hard, but it is not automatic either.
    • Sighted people learn to read visual graphics throughout childhood, and they have plenty of opportunities to do so.
    • Blind/low vision children often get few, if any, opportunities to access tactile graphics, so it is not surprising that they may need extra support in this neglected area of learning.
    • Tactile graphics should be plentiful and instruction in exploring, reading, and making them should begin in infancy and toddlerhood — just as it does for visual graphics.
    • Tactile graphics provide information throughout life. High-stakes testing uses tactile graphics, and tactile maps are an important way for individuals to gain information about new places.

Making your own tactile graphics

  1. Top tip: when possible, begin with REAL objects.
    • For example, use an actual orange before creating a tactile graphic of an orange.
    • This would be a terrific time to create the tactile graphic together:
      • Discuss the orange
      • Discuss how to represent it on paper
      • Compare and contrast the orange with its tactile graphic
  2. For homemade tactile graphics, I recommend:
    • Braille (yes, braille), made on a slate and stylus or a Brailler.
    • In addition to braille, I recommend materials like graphic art tape (matte) and tactilely-differentiable paper/foam to begin.
  3. I do NOT recommend items like puffy paint (irregular lines and long drying time), Wiki-Stix (they come off easily and leave a wax residue on fingers that can damage refreshable braille displays), or play-doh/clay (amorphous graphics may lead to confusion rather than understanding).
  4. If you do choose to use these materials, please be aware of their pitfalls and plan accordingly.

Resources for tactile graphics

Here are some resources that offer free tactile graphic files (and, in some cases, 3-D printing files). Please note that, for several of these, you will need to register (it’s free). Also, please note that these files may require special tools (such as embossers, thermoform machines, and/or 3-D printers). But don’t let that stop you: even if you don’t have those tools, you can print out the PDF files and add tactile lines to them — by placing the matte graphic art tape on the lines or by making the lines raised using a raised line drawing tool (such as the Sensational Blackboard, the Tactile Doodle, or the DRAFTSMAN Tactile Drawing Board.

Please explore these great resources (and let them know how much you value these resources):

Note: I do not receive any compensation in relation to the items noted above.

Summer 2022 APH Virtual ExCEL Courses for K-12 Students

BEARadvocacy

2022 Virtual ExCEL STEM Camp

Once again, the American Printing House for the Blind has some incredible summer opportunities for blind/low vision students! In addition to getting together with peers and enjoying top-notch instruction from talented educators, students who register in time will receive APH products related to their camp!

Please explore the opportunities listed below and sign up soon!

Note: In order to qualify for free APH materials, the student “must meet the definition of blindness in your state.”

Quick Reference Guide

Virtual ExCEL Problem Solving Pre-Camp (Grades K-7)

  • Dates: June 8 and June 10 Noon – 1 p.m. Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Virtual ExCEL Career Open House Pre-Camp (Grades 8-12)

  • Dates: June 8 and June 10 from 3 – 4 p.m. Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Virtual ExCEL Great STEM Campout for K-3rd Grade

  • Register deadline: June 2 (in order to ensure receiving free items related to the camp)
  • Dates: June 13-17 from Noon – 1 p.m. Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Virtual ExCEL Tending the Garden Camp for Symbolic Learners

  • Register deadline: June 2 (in order to ensure receiving free items related to the camp)
  • Dates: June 13-17 from 3 – 4 p.m. Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Virtual ExCEL STEM Camp on a Desert Island for 4-7 grades

  • Register deadline: July 15 (in order to ensure receiving free items related to the camp)
  • Dates: July 25-29 from 3 – 4 p.m. Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Virtual ExCEL Crime Scene Investigation Camp for 8-12 grades

  • Register deadline: July 15 (in order to ensure receiving free items related to the camp)
  • Dates: July 25-29 from Noon – 1 p.m. Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Virtual ExCEL Oreos and Abacii Camp for 5-8 year-olds

  • Register deadline: July 22 (in order to ensure receiving free items related to the camp)
  • Dates: August 1–5 from Noon – 1 p.m. Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Virtual ExCEL Oreos and Abacii Camp for 9-14 year-olds

  • Registration deadline: July 22 (in order to ensure receiving free items related to the camp)
  • Dates: August 1-5 from 3 – 4 p.m. Eastern Time (US and Canada)

El Campamento STEM de español virtual de ExCEL en una isla desierta

  • Fecha límite de inscripción: 22 de julio (para asegurarse de recibir artículos gratuitos relacionados con el campamento)
  • Fechas: del 8 al 12 de agosto de 15:00 a 16:00 Hora del este (EE. UU. y Canadá)

Full Descriptions

Virtual ExCEL Problem Solving Pre-Camp (Grades K-7)

Description

“The Virtual ExCEL Problem Solving Pre-Camp is for students with vison loss Kindergarten (K) to seventh (7) grade and it includes a live hour at 12:00 ET, June 8 and 10, Wednesday and Friday, and is free to all registrants. We will continue to record these sessions so all have the opportunity to learn. Also included are two at-home extension activities. Parents, please register your student for the camp that matches their needs. As parents, you know if they would be more appropriately placed with the age level identified. If you are unsure, we suggest reaching out to your teacher of students with visual impairments. And remember, each student must be registered separately and must meet the definition of blindness in your state.

In this pre-camp, campers will practice critical thinking skills. We will examine the questions we ask ourselves throughout the day. Throughout the day situations arise and we ask ourselves questions. Some questions are simple and straightforward, but other questions lead to more questions. In this class students will refine their questions in order to solve a mystery.”

Time in Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Jun 8, 2022 Noon

Jun 10, 2022 Noon

Virtual ExCEL Career Open House Pre-Camp (Grades 8-12)

Description

“The Virtual ExCEL Career Open House Pre-Camp is for students with vison loss eighth (8) grade to seniors (12+) grade and it includes a live hour at 3:00 ET, June 8 and 10, Wednesday and Friday, and is free to all registrants. We will continue to record these sessions so all have the opportunity to learn. Also included are two at-home extension activities. Parents, please register your student for the camp that matches their needs. As parents, you know if they would be more appropriately placed with the age level identified. If you are unsure, we suggest reaching out to your teacher of students with visual impairments. And remember, each student must be registered separately and must meet the definition of blindness in your state.

In this pre-camp, campers will explore various STEM careers. These two days will help you consider the skills (academic and blindness skills) you need to meet the demands of the career, and to explore the pros and cons of these jobs, including other ways to prepare for your life after high school, and entering the workforce. The key to all of it? Your own knowledge, skills, and determination to do hard things.”

Time in Eastern Time (US and Canada)

Jun 8, 2022 03:00 PM

Jun 10, 2022 03:00 PM

Virtual ExCEL Great STEM Campout for K-3rd Grade

Description

“The Virtual ExCEL Great STEM Campout is for students with vison loss grades kindergarten (K) to third (3) grade and include a live hour at 12:00 ET, June 13-17, Monday through Friday, and is free to all registrants. We will continue to record these sessions so all have the opportunity to learn. Also included are five at-home extension activities for the camp theme and with the camp supplies that will be sent to the student. Parents, please register your student for the camp that matches their needs. As parents, you know if they would be more appropriately placed with the age level identified. If you are unsure, we suggest reaching out to your teacher of students with visual impairments. And remember, each student must be registered separately and must meet the definition of blindness in your state.

Campers will explore the outdoors while learning about math and science. Whether they are figuring out what to pack or how to choose a camping location, campers will understand how geographic regions changes our camping needs, build decision making skills, and problem-solve differences.”

Register early!

“Grants are providing students from the United States of America an APH product that will be used during camp so we need registrations completed early! For students to receive items in time for camp, they must have registered for this week by June 2, 2022.

Those that register after that date are still welcome to attend; we would suggest working with your teacher of students with visual impairments to procure the product for use during camp as all items are available through Federal Quota.

To make sure we have the correct information for your student, you may be contacted via email to confirm information. We are excited to have your student join our Virtual ExCEL Great STEM Campout!”

Time in Eastern Time (US and Canada)

June 13, 2022 Noon – 1:00 PM

June 14, 2022 Noon – 1:00 PM

June 15, 2022 Noon – 1:00 PM

June 16, 2022 Noon – 1:00 PM

June 17, 2022 Noon – 1:00 PM

Virtual ExCEL Tending the Garden Camp for Symbolic Learners

Description

“The Virtual ExCEL Tending the Garden is for students with vison loss and are pre-symbolic learners. It includes a live hour at 3:00 ET, June 13-17, Monday through Friday, and is free to all registrants. We will continue to record these sessions so all have the opportunity to learn. Also included are five at-home extension activities for the camp theme and with the camp supplies that will be sent to the student. Parents, please register your student for the camp that matches their needs. As parents, you know if they would be more appropriately placed with the age level identified. If you are unsure, we suggest reaching out to your teacher of students with visual impairments. And remember, each student must be registered separately and must meet the definition of blindness in your state.

Students will tend a virtual garden while learning about area, perimeter, and pictographs. This exploration will include building mathematical vocabulary, understanding how food is grown, and creating a virtual salad. If your camper needs assistance, please have someone attend the camp with them so they may participate fully in the activities.”

Register early!

“Grants are providing students from the United States of America an APH product that will be used during camp so we need registrations completed early! For students to receive items in time for camp, they must have registered for this week by June 2, 2022.

Those that register after that date are still welcome to attend; we would suggest working with your teacher of students with visual impairments to procure the product for use during camp as all items are available through Federal Quota.

To make sure we have the correct information for your student, you may be contacted via email to confirm information. We are excited to have your student join our Virtual ExCEL Tending the Garden!”

Time in Eastern Time (US and Canada)

June 13, 2022 3:00 – 4:00 PM

June 14, 2022 3:00 – 4:00 PM

June 15, 2022 3:00 – 4:00 PM

June 16, 2022 3:00 – 4:00 PM

June 17, 2022 3:00 – 4:00 PM

Virtual ExCEL STEM Camp on a Desert Island for 4-7 grades

Description

“The Virtual ExCEL STEM Camp on a Desert Island is for students with vison loss grades fourth (4) to seventh (7) grade and include a live hour at 12:00 ET, July 25-29, Monday through Friday, and is free to all registrants. We will continue to record these sessions so all have the opportunity to learn. Also included are five at-home extension activities for the camp theme and with the camp supplies that will be sent to the student. Parents, please register your student for the camp that matches their needs. As parents, you know if they would be more appropriately placed with the age level identified. If you are unsure, we suggest reaching out to your teacher of students with visual impairments. And remember, each student must be registered separately and must meet the definition of blindness in your state.

Campers will survive on a desert island while learning about physical science and engineering. Whether they are figuring out how to build a waterproof container for a message to be sent in a bottle or how to construct an area to sleep that is dry, campers will gain cooperative learning skills, computational thinking, and develop scientific practices for planning and carrying out investigations.”

Register early!

“Grants are providing students from the United States of America an APH product that will be used during camp so we need registrations completed early! For students to receive items in time for camp, they must have registered for this week by July 15, 2022.

Those that register after that date are still welcome to attend; we would suggest working with your teacher of students with visual impairments to procure the product for use during camp as all items are available through Federal Quota.

To make sure we have the correct information for your student, you may be contacted via email to confirm information. We are excited to have your student join our Virtual ExCEL Great STEM Campout!”

Time in Eastern Time (US and Canada)

July 25, 2022 3:00 – 4:00 PM

July 26, 2022 3:00 – 4:00 PM

July 27, 2022 3:00 – 4:00 PM

July 28, 2022 3:00 – 4:00 PM

July 29, 2022 3:00 – 4:00 PM

Virtual ExCEL Crime Scene Investigation Camp for 8-12 grades

Description

“The Virtual ExCEL Crime Scene Investigation Camp is for students with vison loss grades eighth (8) to twelfth (12) grade and include a live hour at 3:00 ET, July 25-29, Monday through Friday, and is free to all registrants. We will continue to record these sessions so all have the opportunity to learn. Also included are five at-home extension activities for the camp theme and with the camp supplies that will be sent to the student. Parents, please register your student for the camp that matches their needs. As parents, you know if they would be more appropriately placed with the age level identified. If you are unsure, we suggest reaching out to your teacher of students with visual impairments. And remember, each student must be registered separately and must meet the definition of blindness in your state.

Campers will investigate a buried skeleton while learning about science, criminal justice, law and forensics. Whether they are figuring out how anthropologists determine age of skeletal remains or how height is determined from the long bones of a skeleton, campers will learn the steps of crime scene investigation, develop research skills, and build their scientific practices for planning and carrying out investigations.”

Register early!

“Grants are providing students from the United States of America an APH product that will be used during camp so we need registrations completed early! For students to receive items in time for camp, they must have registered for this week by July 15, 2022.

Those that register after that date are still welcome to attend; we would suggest working with your teacher of students with visual impairments to procure the product for use during camp as all items are available through Federal Quota.

To make sure we have the correct information for your student, you may be contacted via email to confirm information. We are excited to have your student join our Virtual ExCEL CSI Camp!”

Time in Eastern Time (US and Canada)

July 25, 2022 Noon – 1:00 PM

July 26, 2022 Noon – 1:00 PM

July 27, 2022 Noon – 1:00 PM

July 28, 2022 Noon – 1:00 PM

Juyl 29, 2022 Noon – 1:00 PM

Virtual ExCEL Oreos and Abacii Camp for 5-8 year-olds

Description

“The Virtual ExCEL Oreos and Abacii Camp is for students with vison loss ages five (5) to eight (8) years old and include a live hour at 12:00 ET, August 1-5, Monday through Friday, and is free to all registrants. We will continue to record these sessions so all have the opportunity to learn. Also included are five at-home extension activities for the camp theme and with the camp supplies that will be sent to the student. Parents, please register your student for the camp that matches their needs. As parents, you know if they would be more appropriately placed with the age level identified. If you are unsure, we suggest reaching out to your teacher of students with visual impairments. And remember, each student must be registered separately and must meet the definition of blindness in your state.

Campers will investigate spatial relations, measurements and basic algebra. Whether they are determining how to construct the tallest Oreo Cookie tower, calculating one- and two-digit multiple numbers fast and accurately using an abacus, or engineering a popsicle stick river dam, campers will build mental images of engineering obstacles, build their scientific practices of panning and carrying out investigations, and perform speedy arithmetic.”

Register early!

“Grants are providing students from the United States of America an APH product that will be used during camp so we need registrations completed early! For students to receive items in time for camp, they must have registered for this week by July 22, 2022.

Those that register after that date are still welcome to attend; we would suggest working with your teacher of students with visual impairments to procure the product for use during camp as all items are available through Federal Quota.

To make sure we have the correct information for your student, you may be contacted via email to confirm information. We are excited to have your student join our Virtual ExCEL Oreos and Abacii Camp!”

Time in Eastern Time (US and Canada)

August 1, 2022 Noon – 1:00 PM

August 2, 2022 Noon – 1:00 PM

August 3, 2022 Noon – 1:00 PM

August 4, 2022 Noon – 1:00 PM

August 5, 2022 Noon – 1:00 PM

Virtual ExCEL Oreos and Abacii Camp for 9-14 year-olds

Description

“The Virtual ExCEL Oreos and Abacii Camp is for students with vison loss ages nine (9) to fourteen (14) years old and include a live hour at 3:00 ET, August 1-5, Monday through Friday, and is free to all registrants. We will continue to record these sessions so all have the opportunity to learn. Also included are five at-home extension activities for the camp theme and with the camp supplies that will be sent to the student. Parents, please register your student for the camp that matches their needs. As parents, you know if they would be more appropriately placed with the age level identified. If you are unsure, we suggest reaching out to your teacher of students with visual impairments. And remember, each student must be registered separately and must meet the definition of blindness in your state.

Campers will investigate spatial relations, measurements and basic algebra. Whether they are determining how to construct the tallest Oreo Cookie tower, calculating one- and two-digit multiple numbers fast and accurately using an abacus, or engineering a popsicle stick river dam, campers will build mental images of engineering obstacles, build their scientific practices of panning and carrying out investigations, and perform speedy arithmetic.”

Register early!

“Grants are providing students from the United States of America an APH product that will be used during camp so we need registrations completed early! For students to receive items in time for camp, they must have registered for this week by July 22, 2022.

Those that register after that date are still welcome to attend; we would suggest working with your teacher of students with visual impairments to procure the product for use during camp as all items are available through Federal Quota.

To make sure we have the correct information for your student, you may be contacted via email to confirm information. We are excited to have your student join our Virtual ExCEL Oreos and Abacii Camp!”

Time in Eastern Time (US and Canada)

August 1, 2022 3:00 – 4:00 PM

August 2, 2022 3:00 – 4:00 PM

August 3, 2022 3:00 – 4:00 PM

August 4, 2022 3:00 – 4:00 PM

August 5, 2022 3:00 – 4:00 PM

El Campamento STEM de español virtual de ExCEL en una isla desierta

Descripción

El Campamento STEM de español virtual de ExCEL en una isla desierta es para estudiantes con pérdida de visión y hablantes primarios de español. Incluye una hora en vivo a las 3:00 ET, de lunes a viernes, y es gratis para todos los inscritos. Continuaremos grabando estas sesiones para que todos tengan la oportunidad de aprender. También se incluyen cinco actividades de extensión en el hogar para el tema del campamento y con los útiles del campamento que se enviarán al estudiante. Padres, inscriban a su estudiante en el campamento que se ajuste a sus necesidades. Como padres, saben si sería más apropiado colocarlos con el nivel de edad identificado. Si no está seguro, le sugerimos que se comunique con su maestro de estudiantes con discapacidades visuales. Y recuerde, cada estudiante debe registrarse por separado y debe cumplir con la definición de ceguera en su estado.

Los campistas sobrevivirán en una isla desierta mientras aprenden sobre ciencias físicas e ingeniería. Ya sea que estén averiguando cómo construir un recipiente a prueba de agua para enviar un mensaje en una botella o cómo construir un área seca para dormir, los campistas obtendrán habilidades de aprendizaje cooperativo, pensamiento computacional y desarrollarán prácticas científicas para planificar y llevar a cabo investigaciones.

¡Regístrese temprano!

Las subvenciones están proporcionando a los estudiantes de los Estados Unidos de América un producto APH que se utilizará durante el campamento, ¡así que necesitamos que se completen las inscripciones con anticipación! Para que los estudiantes reciban artículos a tiempo para el campamento, deben haberse registrado para esta semana antes del 22 de julio de 2022. Aquellos que se registren después de esa fecha aún pueden asistir; sugerimos trabajar con su maestro de estudiantes con discapacidades visuales para adquirir el producto para usar durante el campamento, ya que todos los artículos están disponibles a través de Federal Quota.

Hora en Hora del Este (EE. UU. y Canadá)

Agosto 8, 2022 15:00

Agosto 9, 2022 15:00

Agosto 10, 2022 15:00

Agosto 11, 2022 15:00 Agosto 12, 2022 15:0

BEAR Guides to Accommodations for Blind/Low Vision Students

BEARadvocacy

Guide to College Entrance Exam Accommodations

Examinations covered:

  • PSAT®/NMSQT (Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test)
  • SAT®
  • ACT®

Also includes hyperlinks to documents referenced.

Guide to College Board Credit-Earning Exams Accommodations

Examinations covered:

  • Advanced Placement (AP®)
  • College Level Examination Program (CLEP®)
  • ACCUPLACER (used for placement decisions in many community colleges, colleges, and universities)

Also includes hyperlinks to documents referenced.

Guide to IB and Cambridge Credit-Earning Exams Accommodations

Examinations covered:

  • International Baccalaureate
  • Cambridge Assessment

Also includes hyperlinks to documents referenced.

ACT Streamlines Accommodations Eligibility Requirements for Students with IEPs, 504 Plans—Sort of

BEARadvocacy

ACT has announced that it “plans to increase accessibility to the ACT test for students with disabilities by streamlining accommodations eligibility requirements. ACT will approve allowable accommodations already included in students’ Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) or 504 plans. Beginning with the 2021-22 testing year, students who already receive accommodations at their school under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act will automatically be eligible to receive the allowable testing accommodations when they register for the ACT with accommodations.” ACT July 21, 2021 Press Release

However, note that this announcement limits students to “allowable accommodations.” I finally found a list of (at least some) “allowable” accommodations in the ACT WorkKeys Accessibility Guide. While this list is helpful, it is not exhaustive. Hopefully, the ACT is committed to increasing accessibility for students with disabilities and the list of “allowable” accommodations is more comprehensive than the accommodations found in this guide.

Securing Nemeth Code Instruction

BEARadvocacy

As noted in earlier blogs in this series, many braille-reading students in the U.S. have been caught in some states’ inexplicable move to UEB Technical (a move that: (1) is not supported by the resolution bringing UEB to this country, (2) is not supported by student data, and (3) poses a great risk of harm to students). While thirty-one states and the District of Columbia teach Nemeth Code by default, eleven states have no default, seven default to the unproven UEB Technical code, and one has not yet published an official stance on the question. While it can be difficult, there ARE ways to secure Nemeth Code instruction, even in states that use UEB Technical as the default code for braille math.

Taking control in the Old Dominion state (Virginia)

The term “dominion” refers to a supreme authority or absolute control. For many parents of blind/low vision children in Virginia (the “Old Dominion State”), the process of advocating for Nemeth Code instruction for their children feels like a battle against a supreme authority that requires all braille readers to use UEB Technical. I know Virginia parents who have chosen to homeschool their children or move to another state in order to provide their children access to Nemeth Code instruction and use.

Multiple parents in multiple school districts have reported to me that they have been told that (1) schools cannot get textbooks in Nemeth Code and (2) the district “must” teach UEB Technical so that students may take the required end-of-course tests, Standards of Learning tests (SOL tests). However, these claims are, at best, misleading.

Textbooks using Nemeth Code abound

As noted in Current Status of Nemeth Code Use in the United States, thirty-two states in the U.S. recognize Nemeth Code as the default for braille math instruction. Another ten fully support both Nemeth Code and UEB Technical. These forty-two states that fully support Nemeth Code are large states and include nine of the ten largest states in the country. In contrast, the UEB Technical default states contain less than ten percent of the nation’s population. Additionally, while the National Library Service (NLS) offers transcriber certifications in UEB literary, Nemeth Code, and Music Braille, there is no certification in UEB Technical (though Canada offers a “Letter of Proficiency,” and a “Completion Certificate” is available from UEBOnline.org). Given that Nemeth Code is fully supported in the vast majority of states, including large states like California, Texas, and New York, it seems highly unlikely that any school district in the United States would have difficulty finding Nemeth Code textbooks—and those textbooks have likely been transcribed by individuals who hold certification in this area, something that is not possible for UEB Technical textbooks.

Virginia DOES offer Nemeth Code on some SOL tests

The Virginia Examiner’s Manual for Fall 2020, Spring 2021, & Summer 2021 Non-Writing Tests (End-of-Course Mathematics Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II) notes that, for students with a documented need for hard copy tests**, “The braille test is available in UEB with UEB Technical and UEB with Nemeth.” Additionally, the Virginia Examiner’s Manual for Spring 2021 Non-Writing Tests (Grades 4 and 5 and Grade 3) contain the same language. Thus, claims that Nemeth Code is not available on SOL tests are not factually correct.

[**Note: ALL braille readers should have hard copy braille for math. This is because, without hard copy braille, braille readers must use refreshable braille displays to read electronic braille; the braille display serves as the corollary to the print user’s monitor to display content. However, the one commercially available multi-line refreshable braille display, the Canute 360, is very new and only supports a few file types; it cannot be used with screen reading software used by high-stakes online tests. Thus, in practice al terms, braille users can read only one line at a time. In math, many problems are set forth in a multi-line display (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, fractions, etc.). Without hard copy braille, braille readers would not be able to view most math problems as a whole.]

Many SOL alternatives offer Nemeth Code

Virginia also provides many alternatives to the SOL tests for all students in the state. Such as PSAT, SAT, SAT Subject tests, ACT, AP exams, International Baccalaureate (IB), and Cambridge International exams. In many cases, these alternatives are better for all students because they reduce the number of tests a student needs to take (and thus reduce student time spent in the testing environment). Substitute Tests Approved for Awarding Verified Credit (most recently revised on March 18, 2021) provides:

  • For Math, PSAT tests, SAT tests, SAT Subject tests, AP tests, and CLEP tests all qualify as SOL alternatives. As noted in Nemeth Code Used for All College Board Tests Involving Math and Science, all of these tests are available ONLY in Nemeth Code. Thus, withholding Nemeth Code instruction significantly limits the availability of SOL alternative tests which would be available to a blind student in Virginia.
  • It is worth noting that the ACT (a nationwide college entrance exam that is currently available in both Nemeth Code and UEB Technical) is not permitted to serve as an SOL Alternative test in the following subjects: Earth Science, Biology, or Chemistry). Thus, Braille-reading students who do not know Nemeth Code have few SOL alternative tests in these areas.
  • Another possible test, the Cambridge International Examination, is prepared in UEB only; its “How to apply for modified papers” notes: “there are no longer any special codes for maths and computer braille, one code is used for all.” (from Information on modified papers). Additionally, there are only three schools in the entire state of Virginia which are listed as “Cambridge schools” on the website., one in Dumfries, one in Manassas, and one in Nokesville.
  • Regarding the International Baccalaureate tests, the focus is on “minimizing bias, particularly for those with assessment access requirements,” so it is likely that the student’s braille needs will be paramount. From Assessment principles and practices. 

Bottom line

Braille reading students in Virginia do not need to use UEB Technical in order to have access to high-quality textbooks, SOL tests, or SOL alternatives. In fact, students who know only UEB Technical and who have not mastered Nemeth Code are at a severe disadvantage in both post-secondary school options and in SOL alternative test options.

UEB Technical is limiting; Nemeth Code is freeing and empowering.

Nemeth Code Used for All College Board Tests Involving Math and Science — Updated for Pi Day 2022

BEARadvocacy2 Comments

College Board STILL supports only Nemeth Code

The College Board offers Braille tests ONLY in UEB and with Nemeth Code for math. Braille test materials are available in Unified English Braille (UEB) with Nemeth Code for math. Students approved for braille will receive a braille test book, Guide to the Nemeth Code, and Braille Reference Information for use with the math test.” From Accommodations and Supports Handbook, 2021-2022.

Given the lack of availability of UEB Technical from the College Board, students who are not permitted to learn Nemeth Code will be unable to take the following tests:

  • PSAT/NMSQT® (the ONLY means by which a student may compete to become a National Merit Scholar)
  • SAT®
  • SAT Subject Tests™
  • Advanced Placement® (AP®) Exams
  • CLEP® (College Level Examination Program)
  • ACCUPLACER® (widely used by post-secondary schools to “assess student readiness for introductory credit-bearing courses”)
  • PSAT™ 10
  • PSAT™ 8/9

College Board tests are widely-used

This will place these students at a severe disadvantage in their pursuit of post-secondary education.

PSAT (Preliminary SAT)

As noted above, the PSAT is the ONLY method of entering the competition to be named a National Merit Scholarship semi-finalist, finalist, or winner. Achieving this distinction can result in National Merit Scholarship funds as well as scholarships from private and school sources. Additionally, “National Merit Scholar” is a valuable addition to any college application.

SAT (formerly, Scholastic Aptitude Test)

The SAT is a commonly-used college entrance exam. It is used by scholarship-granting organizations as well.

AP (Advanced Placement) examinations

AP exams are end-of-course tests through which a student may earn college credit (depending on the student’s score and the attending school’s AP credit-granting policy).

Note that pursuing AP study is favored by colleges. When deciding whether to limit a student to UEB Technical, ask: Will those colleges understand that the blind student couldn’t take the AP Calculus exam because the district never taught the student Nemeth Code—the code needed to access AP exams?

Also, AP exams cost less than one hundred dollars, but a student may earn three to eight credits by passing the test. This can save a significant amount of money for the students’ families. Will schools be willing to pay for a comparable college course for students unable to take an AP exam because Nemeth Code instruction was withheld from them?

CLEP (College Level Examination Program)

CLEP exams provide students a way to get college credit similar to that of AP exams. While CLEP exams are not typically tied to high school courses like AP exams are, the remain valuable tools for securing college credit for entry-level courses. In fact, an online program, Modern States, offers free course materials for AP and CLEP examinations. Blind students should not miss out on these college credit opportunities simply because their schools decline to teach them Nemeth Code.

Accuplacer

Accuplacer is an exam used by many community colleges, four-year colleges, and universities to place students in the proper class. The subject areas of Accuplacer are Reading, Writing (really, editing), Math, and WritePlacer Essay (composition).

Students who cannot take the Accuplacer exam will likely be placed in lower-level classes than is appropriate. As noted above, failing to prepare a student to take exams that could waive the need for entry-level college courses puts that student in the position of taking additional classes that might not have been needed had the student had the opportunity to “test out” of those classes. This, in turn, will increase the expense of college as well as the time needed to matriculate to a degree.

Consider students’ current and future needs

Please note that even students who are permitted to learn Nemeth Code (but are also forced to learn UEB Technical) are harmed. They are burdened with needlessly learning two math codes: one to please their school and one to serve them for life. The push toward UEB Technical forces braille-reading students to learn and use a math code which is region-specific and which restricts the student’s post-secondary education options. States and school districts are not placing this demand on non-disabled students; print readers are allowed to continue using two codes: one for literary and one for math.

Braille for Math? Tell Me More

BEARadvocacy

Yes, as noted in A Brief Introduction to Braille in the United States, braille readers have access to specialized mathematical and scientific notation using braille. As noted in the BANA resolution that adopted Unified English Braille in the U.S., “Braille Authority of North America (BANA) adopts Unified English Braille to replace the current English Braille American Edition in the United States while maintaining the Nemeth Code for Mathematics and Science Notation, 1972 Revision…” (emphasis added). However, Unified English Braille (UEB) does contain some mathematical notations, and, despite the clear, unequivocal language of the resolution, some individuals have attempted to replace Nemeth Code with the technical materials for UEB. To better understand the “educational landscape” of which braille to use for math, it is helpful to provide some background.

Foundations of braille math

Braille numbers in the English-speaking world are based on the first ten letters of the alphabet. The dot formations for numbers one through nine are the same shape is the letters “a” through “i;” the number zero corresponds to the dot formation of the letter “j.” In literary braille, the only difference between these letters and these numbers is the placement of a special notation, the “numeric indicator,” directly before the brailled numbers. In contrast, Nemeth Code uses “dropped” numbers; while the dot shape still corresponds to letters, those dots are “dropped” to the bottom of the cell. Thus, in Nemeth Code, readers have two means by which to distinguish numbers from letters.

Pitfalls of “raised” numbers

Before Nemeth Code, the U.S. used a math code similar to UEB Technical, called the Taylor Code. Like UEB Technical, the Taylor Code used “raised” numbers.

Instructional issues

In my experience as a teacher of students with blindness/low vision, I have found that students learn dropped numbers (what Nemeth Code uses) far more easily than the “raised” numbers used in UEB Technical and the Taylor Code. For beginning and emergent braille learners, raised numbers are too much like letters, and students often take a two-step approach to decoding their numbers: they first identify the “letter” after the numeric indicator, then they “count” to the number associated with the letter. For example, if they identify the number as being associated with the letter “g,” they count – a, b, c, d, e, f, g – in order to identify the number as 7. Not only is this time-consuming and inefficient, the students usually use their fingers to “count” and thereby lose their place in the braille.

Delayed instruction

For many years, teachers actually withheld instruction in braille math (of any kind) until students had “mastered” the literary braille code (usually by second- or third-grade). Thus, most braille readers were prevented from learning any written math until halfway through elementary school—putting them years behind their sighted peers and feeding into the myth that blind students are poor in math. With Nemeth Code, it is easier to teach numbers as separate entities from letters, and students can pick up the braille more quickly, more efficiently, and at younger ages.

Efficiency in reading and writing

The use of numbers in the upper portion of the braille cell creates the need for numerous and duplicative number indicators and letter indicators in many mathematical equations. In other words, because it uses “raised” numbers, UEB Technical is much longer than Nemeth Code. This additional length leads to slower reading and slower writing. It doesn’t take a teaching certificate to understand that slowing a student down in reading and writing math probably doesn’t increase the student’s love for the subject.

Benefits of “dropped” numbers

When the U.S. switched from the Taylor Code to Nemeth Code, blind students started excelling in math. They took higher-level math classes, and more than ever before pursued and attained undergraduate and graduate degrees in math and science. Other countries, including Australia, have been using UEB Technical for more than a decade. They are not showing the kind of growth in blind math students that the U.S. has shown. It saddens me to think that some want to abandon a robust and efficient code and take up one that has not shown itself to be even as good as Nemeth Code (and definitely has no proof of being better than Nemeth Code). Our children’s education is too important to forgo proven methods of equitable STEM access in favor of unproven methods.

Print readers benefit from “switching codes;” why shouldn’t braille readers?

I always find it interesting that some individuals bemoan “two codes” and the need for “code switching” as a reason to eliminate the robust and effective Nemeth Code and replace it with UEB Technical, which is, at best, unproved to provide the robust foundation students need to pursue STEM opportunities in education and employment.

In print, we have two codes: Classic Latin Alphabet letters and Arabic numbers. The print writing systems for letters and for number don’t even have didn’t even have the same origin. Yet these codes are so efficient, we hardly recognize them as different codes. For English language print users, it is most efficient to use Roman letters and Arabic numerals.

Does consistency outweigh utility?

Imagine someone trying to force all print readers to change to Arabic letters or to Roman numerals for the sake of “consistency.”

What would that do to academic performance by print readers?

The education sector would never consider subjecting print readers to such a change.

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it

Some individuals believe that braille readers should be subjected to this type of change—even though there is no data showing that UEB Technical improves the efficiency or attainment level of braille users anywhere on the planet. They promote this view even though (1) there are decades of evidence of the benefits of Nemeth Code use and (2) there is no evidence that the use of UEB Technical is superior to Nemeth Code in meeting students’ educational needs for efficient and effective tools to access STEM materials in education and in employment.

Instead of stripping braille readers in the U.S. of Nemeth Code, a proven tool that promotes STEM opportunities and achievement for braille readers, it makes more sense to follow the plain language of the BANA resolution and maintain Nemeth Code in the States. This will allow our students to have the STEM access they need, and we can monitor the impact of UEB Technical in the countries where it has been in place for years. If, at some point, there is evidence that UEB Technical promotes STEM achievement for blind students, BANA might revisit its 2012 resolution and any data can be evaluated to determine if a switch to UEB Technical should be implemented in the United States.

Please check out the next installment in this series, “Current status of Nemeth Code use in the United States.”