Director's Corner

Greetings and Welcome to the New Year! Isn't the New Year a great time? It gives us an opportunity to review what we've done and where we've been and, at the same time, gives us the opportunity to set new goals, look ahead and move forward. So much has happened this year in the area of assistive technology and yet there is so much more to accomplish. I hope that you take the time to pat yourself on the back for all we've accomplished in 2003 and then take the time to look forward to 2004 with renewed energy and excitement as we work together to address assistive technology concerns through out Rhode Island.

What an exciting beginning for TechACCESS! In front of balloon bouquets, a giant banner gathered Board Members, Staff and Friends, and a film crew from NBC10, Joseph MarcAurele, the President & CEO of Citizens Bank, recognized TechACCESS as a Community Champion! Identifying TechACCESS as one of the area non profit agencies that is making a difference in the community not only gives us an opportunity to pause and reflect on the work we have done, but energizes us to move forward with new focus and commitment. Thank you Citizens Bank and NBC10.

Some things to watch in 2004!
The Alternative Financing Program
ATAP is working hard to establish an alternative financing program which will provide low interest loans for persons with disabilities who want to purchase assistive technology. If you are interested in participating or keeping up on the progress, contact Roberta Greene at 831-3150.

Commission to Promote and Develop a Comprehensive System of Education for Visually Impaired Children
Representative Eileen Naughton is chairing a very active Commission to review the services provided for visually impaired children and adults in RI. Along with representatives from state agencies, private agencies, service providers, people who have vision impairment, and family members, the Commission is developing a statewide agenda as well as a strategic plan. For information on this Commission or to receive minutes, contact Beverly at 463-0202.

RI Department of Education, Assistive Technology Competencies for RI Educators
A set of Assistive Technology Competencies is being developed by RIDE, Office of Special Needs and will be ready for public review soon. The competencies, based on several national models, were designed to guide the development of educational programs that will reflect the highest standard of quality for educators and increase the capacity of RI educators to meet the assistive technology needs of children in the classroom. Anyone interested in reviewing the competencies should contact Kim Carson at RIDE, 222-4600 x 12336.

The RIDE Winter Leadership Institute
If you are a RI educator or parent of a child with a disability, don't miss this opportunity to hear Dr. Michael L. Wehmeyer from the University of Kansas speak on “Access to the General Curriculum and Universal Design: High Quality Educational Experiences for All Students.” His keynote address at the Winter Leadership Conference will be followed by afternoon breakout sessions focusing on effective strategies that promote participation in the general curriculum for students with low incidence disabilities. Contact the RI Technical Assistance Project at RI College, 456-8411, for registration information.

That's all the room I have. Have a wonderful winter and I'll catch up with you again in the next newsletter!

Judi

TechACCESS of RI
Phone: 401-463-0202 (v/tdd)
FAX: 401-463-3433
In-State: 800-916-(TECH)8324
Contact: TechACCESS of RI | techaccess@techaccess-ri.org|

Last Revised: February 4, 2004