Introduction
Only use Form ER-3 when the IEP team determines a student has a visual impairment (see form ER-1). Wisconsin law requires the IEP provide for instruction in braille and the use of braille unless a determination is made that instruction in braille or the use of braille is not appropriate for the student. Use Form ER-3 to document the required considerations and whether instruction in braille or the use of braille is appropriate for the student. This form should be attached to the IEP in the Special Factors section (Section I-C of Form I-4). 34 CFR § 300.324 (a)(1); Wis. Stat. § 115.787(3)(b)3.
Implementation Considerations
In some situations, such as a child of preschool age or a student with a degenerative disease of the eye, it may not be possible to make a determination of the student’s future need for instruction in braille or the use of braille. In these instances, the IEP team should follow and monitor the student’s progress to determine if there are any changes in the student’s need for instruction in braille or the use of braille.
Form Content and Explanations
Content: Evaluation of reading and writing skills, needs and appropriate media. Explanation: For a student with a visual impairment, an IEP team must evaluate reading and writing skills, needs, and appropriate reading and writing media, including the student’s future need for instruction in braille or the use of braille. 34 CFR § 300.324(a)(1); Wis. Stat. § 115.787(3)(b)3.
Content: Determination of current need for instruction in braille or use of braille. Explanation: Check “Yes” or “No” to indicate whether the student demonstrates a current need for instruction in braille and/or the use of braille. If “No” is checked, enter an explanation of the basis for this conclusion. 34 CFR § 300.324(a)(1); Wis. Stat. § 115.787(3)(b)3.
Content: Determination of future need for instruction in braille or use of braille. Explanation: Check “Yes,’ “No,” or “Cannot be determined at this time” to indicate the IEP team’s conclusion about whether the student demonstrates a future need for instruction in braille or the use of braille. If “No” or “Cannot be determined at this time” is checked, provide an explanation. 34 CFR § 300.324(a)(1); Wis. Stat. § 115.787(3)(b)3.