NE Regional NE Regional Assistive Assistive

Technology Technology Lending LibraryLending Library

Joanne Laurich – Assistant Coordinator

Welcome to the Welcome to the Library!Library!

What Is Assistive Technology?

Assistive Technology is any tool or device that a student with a disability uses to do a task that he or she could not otherwise do without it or any tool the student uses to do a task more easily, faster, or in a better way. It can be a simple “low tech” device such as a pencil grip or an expensive “high tech” device such as a computer or speaking device.

Why is AT Important & Who Benefits From It? AT has the powerful potential of impacting

significantly upon a student with disabilities by contributing to his or her learning, independence, self esteem, and quality of life.

Any student with a disability, from mild to severe, may benefit from the use of assistive technology. Assistive technology is available for individuals with reading, writing, remembering, walking, sitting, seeing, hearing, and/or communicating disabilities. Any student who needs help with any of these life functions may benefit significantly from the use of assistive technology.

What Services

Are Offered?

As of July 1, 1998, ALL special education students must have the consideration of assistive technology (AT) documented in their IEP.

In order to help school districts provide these needed services, an assistive technology coordinator and lending library are available through CESA 8.

There are over 350 items in the lending library for usage on a 3-5 week lending period.

Assessments, consultations, and special group equipment buys are also available.

Where Do Assistive Technology Services Come From?

These services are offered through the special education department at CESA 8 by contacting Joanne Laurich at 800-831-6391 ext. 235.

By purchasing services, you will benefit from having a certified professional who will provide needs-based services to help train local educators and evaluate students.

What Kind of Items Are Offered in the Library? Augmentative Communications Computer Access Devices - Win/Mac/General Computers Environmental Control Manipulative Kits Portable Assistive Technology Devices Resources Materials Software – Win/Mac Birth-To-Three Kits Assessment Kits Resource Phone Numbers and E-mails

Top 10 Checked Out Items CheapTalk 4 & CheapTalk 8 BIGMack Boardmaker IntelliKeys Alpha Smart Storytime – Resource Books Start-to-Finish – Various Software Programs Living Books – Various Software Programs Keyboarding Programs Co:Writer/Write:Outloud

Resource Information Internet access to printable online catalogwww.cesa8.k12.wi.us/services/at/atindex.htm

Catalog (82 page hard copy) – $3.50. Contact JoAnne Laurich at 800-831-6391 x 235

The CESA 8 AT Lending Library is a federally funded

discretionary grant provided by the WI DPI (Dept. of Public Instruction), WATI (Wisconsin Assistive Technology Initiative), and also by local school district contributions.