Bill > SB8

This bill enhances educational support and services for deaf and hard of hearing students in Alaska by requiring school districts to provide comprehensive, unbiased information to parents about communication methods, hearing technologies, and support services. Specifically, districts must offer parents detailed information about different communication approaches (such as listening and spoken language, bilingual approaches, cued speech, and total communication), hearing technologies like hearing aids and cochlear implants, and available support services. The bill mandates that parents can choose the communication method they believe is most appropriate for their child, and school districts must provide services using that chosen method with professionals trained in that specific approach. Additionally, the bill establishes a centralized program for deaf students that can provide residential services and can be operated by a school district under an agreement with the state's education department. The bill also provides precise definitions for terms like "deaf," "hard of hearing," and various communication methods to ensure clarity and consistency in implementing these educational provisions. The goal is to ensure that deaf and hard of hearing students receive personalized, effective educational support that meets their individual communication needs.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.akleg.gov/basis/Bill/Detail/34?Root=SB8