The conference report contains background information on organizing the April, 1979, New York, conference on educational issues of students with visual impairments; results of a preliminary needs assessment questionnaire; texts of 12 conference presentations; the conference evaluation results; and the program. The needs assessment questionnaire provided for the identification of topics respondents considered of highest priority for conference consideration. High priority topics selected included effective utilization of low vision and needs of parents with visually impaired children. Conference presentations are organized into the following categories: policy, individualized educational plans (IEPs), low vision, multihandicapped students, and specialized skills. Presentations have the following titles and authors: "Overview of New York State Policies and Plans Regarding Students with Visual Impairments" (L. Grumet); "Advocacy for Students and Parents" (H. Unterberg); "BEH Projects and Programs Related to Students with Visual Impairments" (J. Taylor); "Writing IEPs for Visually Impaired Students" (P. Vedovatti); "Effective Utilization of Low Vision" (N. Barraga); "Visual Development and Stimulation" (R. Jackson, B. Rosenthal); "Informal Assessment of Multihandicapped Students" (S. Legouri); "Tactile, Kinesthetic and Vestibular Stimulation" (J. Kimball); "Cognitive Development" (R. Swallow); "Orientation and Mobility Techniques for Teachers" (J. Rutberg); "Issues in Teaching Reading with the Optacon" (A. Corn); and "Career Education" (F. Simpson, G. Miller). Conference evaluation results included a rating of excellent or good on overall relevance of the conference by 81% of respondents. Appended are a list of conference planning committee members, facilitators, and recorders; instructions to facilitators and recorders; the needs assessment questionnaire; a manning table of the Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services in the Department of Education; the regulations on IEPs of Public Law 94-142, the Education for All Handicapped Children Act; the conference evaluation form; and topic suggestions for future statewide conferences. (DB)