Of these only about 5,500 are being taught Braille.

"The children will study all the regular subjects, plus we'll teach Braille, assistive computer technology and independent living skills."

New College will also teach Braille to students if necessary.

"There is a reluctance of school systems to teach visually impaired students Braille," she said.

She continued her work with the blind by teaching Braille at the hospital.

Before she completely lost her hearing, Ms. Jackson taught Braille.

But he is still bitter that as a child with only limited vision he was not taught Braille and thus found himself illiterate in his mid-20's.

Those without visual handicaps want to teach Braille selectively.

Historically, all people with vision handicaps have been taught Braille in separate schools for the blind.

Laws requiring that legally blind students be taught Braille are now in force in five states.