The Braille Literacy Advisory Council was established by state law in 1996. The council consists of nine members including those with experience and expertise in using computer technology for the production of Braille, educators of students with visual impairments, parents of a blind child, blind persons who are regular and effective users of Braille, and representatives of advocacy organizations of blind persons. The council will discuss and provide recommendations on topics such as Braille instruction, literacy assessment for students with visual impairments, teacher certification and recertification, MCAS testing, and availability of instructional materials and Braille production activities. The council works in partnership with the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind and DESE.
Massachusetts Unified English Braille (UEB) State Implementation Plan In November 2012, BANA voted to adopt Unified English Braille (UEB) as an official braille code for the United States. The Braille Literacy Advisory Council (BrLAC) was charged with developing a plan for approval by the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) regarding the implementation of UEB in Massachusetts.
Special Education Planning & Policy Department of Elementary & Secondary Education SpecialEducation@mass.gov
Last Updated: September 10, 2026