Funding

First, let me say I didn't know New York State had so many companies that cater to Assistive Technology for resources. I think that is great but I do wonder, "Why we make it so hard for people to get the devices they need to help their everyday life? I know technology is expensive, but we need to give everyone a fighting chance to live a productive life. I feel in my own experience that we always start small before we go big for any type of AT service.  I worked for BOCES and teachers would make simple AT's before they would request anything to expensive. I know schools says it's all about money and they don't have it. I think that AT should be in the budget so students can benefit from their learning and life skills.


The funding for AT looks like people with disabilities have to jump through hoops.  In the reading it also states that most devices are only for school. If students need AT devices at school then more then likely they will need it at home.  Some schools don't allow the AT to go home because they say it's theirs because they helped purchase the device. That seems highly unfair considering schools should see that each student as an individual. That is why I believe schools should have a fund to help with students with disabilities. Every student deserves the same respect and FAPE as any other student.


Students who have and IEP and need anything from glasses to a wheelchair the school has to provide it. That falls under the IDEA which states all students receive the necessary services to help them.


http://www.ataporg.org/ Association of Assistive Technology Act Programs is helpful site for parents and teachers.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcUNnnwFm4g met Mason and his AT.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DB9pKkZoJDc simple said AT
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bYKUxOdUAao meet Jared he is a web designer.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bYKUxOdUAao meet Elle and her DynaVox,


I thought I would give you access on AT devices different people use. Every person has a unique AT device are helpful for their particular need.