These California state guidelines are intended as a resource for parents, staff, and administrators in assessing, identifying, planning, providing, evaluating, and improving the quality and cost effectiveness of programs serving visually impaired students. Chapters have the following titles and sample subtopics: (1) "Introduction" (purpose, scope, and use of the guidelines); (2) "Identifying the Unique Educational Needs Related to a Visual Impairment" (communication and social/emotional needs, daily living skills, career and vocational needs); (3) "Assessing Unique Educational Needs" (eligibility for special education, identification of visually impaired students, assessment personnel, variables affecting educational needs); (4) "Planning and Providing Instruction and Services" (concept development and academic needs, orientation and mobility instruction, daily living skills instruction, materials and equipment, roles and responsibilities of key individuals); and (5) "Organizing and Supporting Instruction and Services" (administrative roles and responsibilities, placement in the least restrictive environment, staff and supervision). Seven appendices with information on assessing vision, the California School for the Blind, state hospital programs, sources of funding, legal requirements, and technical assistance, as well as a glossary, complete the guide. (DB)