Assistive Technology

Kristina Neville, Program Coordinator

Children with disabilities sometimes need and are entitled to special equipment and services to ensure that they have access to a free and appropriate education (FAPE). Assistive technology includes both devices and services. As defined in IDEA:

During the IEP process, assistive technology must be considered for every child and then provided by districts if required in a childs IEP to access a free and appropriate public education (FAPE). TMCSEA offers Assistive Technology Consultation services to member districts. The TMCSEA AT Consultation procedures are as follows:

The TMCSEA Assistive Technology Team developed a vision statement, action plan, and 3-tier service delivery model framework in an effort to better meet member district needs. Please see the links to the Assistive Technology Action Plan and AT Framework below. Tier 1 of the Assistive Technology Services Framework addresses assistive technology for all students within the core curriculum. Target groups include general and special education teachers and paraprofessionals. Each member district, dependent on size, was given the opportunity to select one or more staff members to be AT Liaisons. A Trainer or Trainers model of professional development has been implemented to increase these individuals' knowledge in assistive technology. In an effort to cotninue professional networking and build capacity in member districts AT Liaisons are encouraged to attend two trainings during the 2011-2012 school year.

To view additional information and flyers for these trainings please see the calendar at: www.myinfinitec.org

It is our goal that AT Liaisons will return to their respective districts and share their assistive technology knowledge, information, and resources with other staff members.

We are pleased to announce TMCSEA has renewed our membership in the Infinitec Coalition this school year which will enable us to provide additional equipment, training, and information/expertise resources for member districts. The Infinitec website is: www.myinfinitec.org. All member district staff must enter a sign-in name and Password to access this website. All new users will need to register on the home page prior to logging in for the first time using their school email address. Pleae see Quicklinks on the Infinitec homepage for additional sign-in and registration instructions.


Instructional Technology Resources



Apps for Education Resources


Websites


Assistive Technology Toolbox Notebook


For more information contact Kristina Neville, Program Coordinator.