Kentucky Instructional Materials
Resource Center:
The KIMRC is designed to assist schools in obtaining specialized materials for Kentucky students who are blind and visually impaired. This includes students that are enrolled in public and private schools, as well as those students that are home schooled as long as they are participating in a “formally organized educational program.” Also included are infants and preschool children served through private agencies.
In January, the KIMRC conducts an Annual Registration of Students who are Blind and Visually Impaired. It is through this process that students are deemed eligible to receive textbooks in alternate formats, instructional materials and supplies.
Student Services ~ The KIMRC is responsible for administering funds to purchase materials needed by students through the Federal Quota Program, special grants and through additional sources such as the State Textbook Program when available. Materials offered through the KIMRC are provided free of charge for students who are legally blind, functions at the definition of blindness, or are visually impaired. These materials are provided on loan to the school district, private or home school. Items on loan must be returned to the KIMRC or renewed on a yearly basis.
Additional Resources ~ Materials for workshops, professional development, student events and other learning opportunities for families may be accessed through the KIMRC, free of charge, by Kentucky teachers of the visually impaired, directors of special education and outreach consultants. All requests should be emailed to the KIMRC Program Coordinator. Requests will be reviewed on an individual basis and approved based on suitability and availability of materials and/or funding at the time of the request. Requests should be submitted no later than sixty days prior to the date needed.
The KIMRC is under the management of the Kentucky School for the Blind Outreach Department, Division of State Schools, Kentucky Department of Education.
Additional Resources
Here are some resources that you may find useful for students who are blind and visually impaired and/or their teachers and service providers:
American Printing House for the Blind (APH) This is the largest printing house for the blind in the world. They produce instructional and lifestyle materials for individuals who are blind and visually impaired and textbooks in accessible formats. In addition, they have numerous resources to benefit students and teachers.
College Resources for Students with Disabilities Eight different types of disabilities are discussed, including a wide variety of resources, technology and support to help affected students cope with the transition to college, college life and culture, and starting their careers,
Learning Ally This organization provides support for individuals with dyslexia and print disabilities.
Bookshare This is an accessible on-line library for individuals with print disabilities
KSBCF Programs This page provides a list of programs that are available to Kentucky students and adults with visual impairments through the Kentucky School for the Blind Charitable Foundation.