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Author: Nicole Gaines

  • Free Training Courses for Braille Transcribers Working with NIMAS Files

    In the first half of 2022, the NIMAC was pleased to offer two free online courses to support braille transcribers who work with NIMAS files. These courses are archived here.

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  • NIMAC TA Gap Analysis Report

    In 2021, the NIMAC worked with Evergreen Evaluation & Consulting (EEC) to conduct a “gap analysis” relating to state and district TA needs surrounding NIMAS and AEM. This report is now available and can be downloaded here.

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  • Important Policy Change: NIMAS & Digital Instructional Materials

    In May 2020, the U.S. Department of Education issued a final notice of interpretation to clarify that the definition of “print instructional materials” in IDEA includes digital instructional materials. Previously, the NIMAC was only able to accept for materials published and distributed to students in a hard copy print format. However, going forward, the repository…

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  • Spring 2021 NIMAC Updates

    This webinar covers many important NIMAC updates including: the new NLS guidelines and updated NIMAC agreements, the new NIMAS Validation tool development, the NIMAC’s technical assistance “gap analysis work,” and more. You can also download the Powerpoint (available in English or Spanish) to keep for future reference!

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  • New NLS Guidelines–February 2021

    In February 2021, the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled issued new eligibility guidelines. The NIMAC has updated its NIMAC Coordination Agreement and Limitation of Use Agreement to align with the changes. For more information you can download the Powerpoint (available in English or Spanish).

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  • Dual or “Hybrid” SC and AU Account Option

    If you are a State Coordinator but would also like to access the NIMAC as an Authorized User, a single sign in option is now available. See the video below for details or contact the NIMAC for more information!

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  • NIMAS Q & A

    On August 9, 2021, OSEP issued a revised NIMAS Q & A. This Q & A provides states, state educational agencies (SEAs), local educational agencies (LEAs), and other interested parties with information to facilitate implementation of the NIMAS and coordination with the NIMAC.

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  • Notice of Interpretation Regarding Digital Instructional Materials

    The following notice was published in the Federal Register on Tuesday, May 26, 2020: OSERS/OSEP Assistance to States for the Education of Children With Disabilities–Final Notice of Interpretation. SUMMARY: The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) established the National Instructional Materials Access Center (NIMAC) in 2004 to assist State educational agencies (SEAs) and local educational…

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  • Marrakesh Changes to Copyright

    On January 23, 2020, OSERS released a memorandum to State Directors of Special Education notifying them of the changes to copyright that became effective through the ratification of the Marrakesh Treaty Implementation Act. Specifically, the copyright law has been changed to provide new definitions for “eligible person” and “accessible format.” Although the IDEA statute and…

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  • NIMAC Impact Research: Phase 1 Final Report

    In 2019, the NIMAC contracted with Evergreen Evaluation and Consulting (EEC) to research the impact of the NIMAC, NIMAS, and AEM. This research included a case study focusing on the experiences of braille readers in K-12. The NIMAC and EEC will also be continuing this impact research, with Phase 2 focusing on the experiences of…

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