It has been around for nearly 200 years, yet studies show only about 12 percent of visually impaired people know how to read Braille.
Still, it's in no danger of becoming obsolete in Pasco County. The school district makes sure any student in need learns how.
Third grader Beau Wolfe is legally blind and uses high-tech glasses, a camera and a monitor to enlarge lessons learned in the classroom. As impressive as that technology is, Wolfe is still learning Braille. In fact, he started in preschool.
"Braille is little dots but they make shapes," Wolfe explained. "And those shapes stand for a letter."
Wolfe and his classmate, 10-year-old Alejandro Angarita said it's not that hard to pick up if you practice enough. Teacher Kelly Ahonen said it's great for their self-esteem.
"It gives you self confidence and a sense of independence," Ahonen said. "You're your own person. You can do whatever you want to do regardless of limitations."
It's a feeling Wolfe and Angarita cherish.
"Instead of eyes on your head, it's like eyes on your fingers," Wolfe said.
"I can still be normal," said Angarita. "Other people can read and so can I."