Literacy Institute: Low Incidence Disabilities

On December 1-3, 2009, the Louisiana Department of Education, Division of Special Populations will host a three day Institute on literacy for students with the low incidence disabilities of deafness, blindness and significant disabilities including autism and deafblindness. We invite you to join us at the Crown Plaza in Baton Rouge for this event. Each day is filled with breakout sessions from experts in the various disciplines as well as presentations from outstanding Louisiana educators. Lunch will be provided each day and Day 2 and Day 3 will also feature panel presentations. You may register for one, two or all three days. There is no cost for this event.

Crowne Plaza Baton Rouge, Louisiana
4728 Constitution Ave Baton Rouge, LA 70808-3206 - (225) 925-2244
Rooms at a special conference rate of $89.00 single or double occupancy and will be held until Nov. 5, 2009

Lunch will be provided each day for participants.

Panel presentations during lunches on Day 2 and Day 3

Each day will feature breakout sessions pertaining to specific disability categories:

1. Deaf/Hard of Hearing
2. Blind/Visually Impaired, and
3. Significant Disabilities/Autism and Deafblindness

Be sure to register for EACH DAY you would like to attend AND the STRAND you would like for that day.

If you have questions related to the sessions and material, please contact:

Joyce Russo
joyce.russo@la.gov
225-342-3661

You MUST have a Coursewhere account to register for this conference. If you are having technical problems registering and/or creating a Coursewhere account, please contact the Help Desk at 877.453.2721. Please do not create a second account if you have forgotten your password info. Also, please verify your session choices before pressing the Register button. If you need to make changes to your registration after the fact, you will have to call the Help Desk for assistance.

Using Intellitools Classroom Suite 4, you can adapt and create activities to use in the classroom. These activities range from math, science, and social studies to literacy and life skills. This new version of well known software will win you over with its extremely low learning curve. If you have tried to use Intellitools in the past and have been unsuccessful, now is the perfect time to give it a second try.

The focus of this session is giving students a voice through the use of low and mid tech communication devices that greatly enhance their classroom participation and also lower their level of frustration. This session will offer suggestions and helpful hints to help include all students in the learning process.

This training will provide reliable and consistent data collection procedures and accurate measurement for students requiring intenstive school-based learning interventions. Emphasis will be placed on grapic displays and visual analysis

Participants will be shown how and where to get various tools that are free, or inexpensive, to use with their students. We have definitely found some wonderful resources that cover everything from text-to-speech to math and art and everything in between.

This afternoon will be spent exploring resources that assist students in the middle and secondary math classrooms. Free internet resources and low tech AT strategies will enable the high-incidence student.

Region II Center for Assistive Technology Professional Development will present math access options for instruction.

Kids sometimes need a variety of instructional methods and tools to grasp math concepts. This training will be focused providing participants an introduction to fun tutorial and reinforcement internet sites, low tech AT strategies and software demonstrations to help students to learn or improve mathematical skills.  Add these valuable resources for teaching and reinforcing math skills to your Differentiation know-how.

This training will allow teachers to increase literacy through the use of Microsoft Word 2007. We will teach participants how to edit toolbars, auto summarize, get a word count, create tables and forms, and use the auto correct features of MS Word to support student writing. They will also learn about a new add on feature that allows MS Word to speak and highlight the spoken word.

Microsoft´s built-in Accessibility features allow the teacher to set up the computer for students needing modifications for visual, auditory, and other types of physical access such as an on-screen keyboard and using “StickyKeys”. Try out magnifying the display.

Microsoft Word has many features that teachers can take advantage of in setting up and modifying student documents for access. Assess the writer´s grade level and obtain a word count for indicating your kids´ progress. Learn how to set up a student template or instructional materials you create with just the right background color and font size to increase readability.

Adapted books/text can assist students with difficulty decoding and comprehending text, gross/fine motor deficiencies, cognitive delays, visual impairments, and their lack of attention to increase their participation in the curriculum.

Accessible Instructional Materials (AIM): Setting up a district process for AIM

Description: This webinar training is designed for distrit Competent Authority designees, AIM District Contacts, or Coordinators assigned to oversee AIM procedures in the district.

This session will serve as an example to show how a district set up their process for AIM ordering, eligibility, and delivery of AIM. The presenter is the Jefferson Parish AIM Competent Authority for that district. She will address the tasks of the Competent Authority, responsibility of the IEP teams and procedures for requesting and reporting AIM. She will also describe the use of the forms that she developed for use in Jefferson. The Jefferson model is not a state mandated model, but serves to provide a district prospective and reference. Each district/LEA is responsible for determining the process best for the size and population of students they serve.

Handouts and forms can be found on the LA AIM website at www.atanswers.com/aim - PD Tab, AIM District Process - Webinar. Participants are required to download their own handouts and forms that will be referenced during the webinar. Once registered, you will be provided with information to link to the webinar and log in.

For more information about AIM and previous AIM workshop downloads, go to www.atanswers.com/aim

News-2-You? This on-line newspaper brings current events along with activities to lower cognitive level students. This discussion will focus on how to include weekly topics of interest to the student into literacy and math activities using this low cost resource.

Date rescheduled due to snow. New date 12-18-08

A Request for Proposals (RFP) has been issued by the Louisiana Department of Education (LDE) for the purpose of establishing Regional Assistive Technology Centers. Eligible applicants are Public School District LEAs or BESE School Districts in Regions I, II, III, IV, V, VI, VII and VIII. This orientation session will answer questions regarding the purpose of the grant and describe the application process. Information about the RFP can be located on the LDE website at http://www.louisianaschools.net/lde/eia/1538.html or a packet may be requested by e-mailing Donna Broussard at donna.broussard@la.gov.

Restricted Participation to Invited Participants of the AT Regional Centers and Region 8

This training will include 3 face-to-face sessions and online sessions over a 10 week period to provide specific skills, resources and coaching for building AT capacity throughout LA districts in support of the LAT Initiatives at http://www.louisianaschools.net/lde/eia/1538.html

The September 1st training is for AT Regional Coordinators and their Directors only.

AT Regional Coordinators are responsible for the purchase of course materials. A list of course materials will be sent to participants upon approved registration.

NOTE: Check that your name, e-mail address and phone information listed in Coursewhere is accurate when you register and in the format that you would want printed on your CLU certificate. This information will be used to print sign-in, name tags, certificates and set up your online Blackboard session account.

Participants will be exposed to the three-tiered intervention model for RTI. Participants will be trained to use both software programs, Clicker 5 and Cloze Pro to implement remediation activities for struggling students. Progress monitoring will also be discussed and several websites will be reviewed for utilizing the necessary forms to effectively monitor a student’s progress. Participants will leave with resources and knowledge for immediate implementation in the classroom.

Participants will be exposed to the three-tiered intervention model for RTI. Participants will be trained to use both software programs, Clicker 5 and Cloze Pro to implement remediation activities for struggling students. Progress monitoring will also be discussed and several websites will be reviewed for utilizing the necessary forms to effectively monitor a student�s progress. Participants will leave with resources and knowledge for immediate implementation in the classroom.

In this three-day course, participants will learn about a range of assistive technology devices that can be used to support students with disabilities who are struggling in the area of reading.

Participants will learn the basics of assistive technology and participate in a hands on demonstration of low, mid, and high tech tools for use in the classroom.

s the use of Assistive Technology has increased statewide, we have received many inquiries about the AT used on statewide assessments. This session will provide an overview of AT. Additional, resources will be provided for additional information.

Participants will learn about a range of AT devices that can be used to support students with disabilities who are struggling in the area of math.

Participants will learn about a range of AT devices that can be used to support students with disabilities who are struggling in the area of math.

Region II Center for Assistive Technology Professional Development will present internet resource options for differentiated instruction.

Take part in a guided tour of and hands-on access to amazing websites for classroom use by students and expansion of your UDL knowledge base. Download free and trial software, e-books and take advantage of on-line tutorials. Give students an opportunity to reinforce academic skills and just have fun when you add these multifaceted resources to your instructional computer gear.

This training will teach participants how to incorporate Boardmaker 6.0 into their daily activities. Features of this program include a symbolate tool, which allows the user to type and the appropriate symbol appears above each word, a movable button tool, an align and center tool, as well as new drag and drop features. This makes creating activities for students a breeze.

Participants will have an opportunity to create communication boards, schedules, worksheets and adapted books to take and use with their students.

Participants will learn the exciting new features of Boardmaker 6.0 (and how to upgrade to this version). Basic skills needed to use Boardmaker will be reviewed. Resources for templates, and pre-made activities will be explored as participants are supported in creating materials for their students.Participants will create custom activities to take back to their classroom!

Enrich the learning environment with Boardmaker! Participants will learn Boardmaker Basics and how to create and download activities for their students. Join us and discover the many ways Boardmaker can enhance your classroom. Participants will create custom activities to take back to their classroom!

Enrich the learning environment with Boardmaker! Participants will learn Boardmaker Basics and how to create and download activities for their students. Join us and discover the many ways Boardmaker can enhance your classroom. Participants will create custom activities to take back to their classroom!

This training will offer instruction on functional overlay making, using Boardmaker & Speaking Dynamically Pro. Participants will learn to use basic Boardmaker operational tools, personalize functional boards, save and organize boards, link and navigate between your boards, save digital pictures in your library, insert movies and launch applications through your boards.

An overview of Prentke Romich communication devices and incorporating them into the literacy of your students.

This meeting is for All Child Find Coordinators in each district. The Child Search Proclamation will be given out at this time. Also, we hope to have the new Child Find brochures and poster samples and information about ordering. We will also have screening information for gifted availalbe. The focus of this year´s meeting will be the identification of the African American male as gifted and/or talented.

This meeting has been rescheduled ...

Classroom Suite is an invaluable tool for differentiated instruction. It combines the benefits of creativity tools with customizable curriculum activities for students and assessment tools for teachers. This workshop will include training on basic operations such as downloading pre-made activities, editing activities and creating simple activities.

Classroom Suite is an invaluable tool for differentiated instruction. It combines the benefits of creativity tools with customizable curriculum activities for students and assessment tools for teachers. This workshop will include training on basic operations such as downloading pre-made activities, editing activities and creating simple activities.

An introduction to Clicker 5, a reading and writing tool that uses a talking word processor and picture supports. This program enables teachers to modify activities to address the reading and writing needs of each student. This training will cover modifying grids, creating your own grids and downloading/modifying free grids from the internet. Clicker Paint is an educational art tool that supports teaching and learning in any subject area. These programs support a range of ability levels and cater to a variety of learning styles. Both programs are switch accessible.

An introduction to Clicker 5, a reading and writing tool that uses a talking word processor and picture support. This versatile program enables teachers to modify activities to address the reading and writing needs of each student. This training will cover modifying grids, creating your own grids and downloading/modifying free grids from the internet. We also continue to offer training for Clicker 4.

An introduction to Clicker 5, a reading and writing tool that uses a talking word processor and picture support. This versatile program enables teachers to modify activities to address the reading and writing needs of each student. This training will cover modifying grids, creating your own grids and downloading/modifying free grids from the internet. We also continue to offer training for Clicker 4.

Participants will learn to implement Communication, Behavior, and Social Skills Strategies with an emphasis on coordinating communication between home and school as well as design instructional enviromental support(s) to facilitate communication of students with Autism. They will create (Make & Take) practical communication tools (i.e. notebooks, journals, etc. designed to improve behavior and social skills of students with ASD. This training is only for educators of students across the autism spectrum.

Co:Writer is a writing assistant with intelligent word prediction, designed to help you write complete and correct sentences with very few key strokes. It is usually used along with another word processing program or other text-based application. Features of the program include word prediction, spelling approaches, conventions of writing and dictionary aid.

A two day skillshop for transliterators. Taught by Jeanie Krause. Must have basic cueing skills.

In this training session, the participants will become familiar with basic camera settings and features. Topics to be discussed will include pixel counts, zoom options, memory cards, batteries, and basic photo suggestions. Additionally, several free photo album websites will be previewed, as well as, a few suggestions for paid photo software programs.

This training is designed for persons monitoring for disproportionality as well as for districts to learn the monitoring procedures and protocols.

We will examine student file reviews, interview protocols, summary sheets, data requests, and how to examine district policies, practices and procedures.

Special Education Quarterly Update Meeting to address current issues related to services to students with disabilities. 8:30a.m. through 3:00p.m. Limited participation; by invitation only.

Objectives: ---To educate audience on the interventions of Don Johnston, Incorporated. ---To examine the motivation increase in struggling students while using technology ---Examining research to show how technology can improve writing scores

EGMS Training (IDEA) March 17-24, 2009

The e-Grant training, available to Special Education Directors and Supervisors is designed to provide on-site technical assistance to LEAS prior to submission of the 2009-2010 e-Grant. Within the framework of written procedures, needs are identified, goals and objectives are developed, and priorities are established for the use of IDEA funds. By adhering to Federal and State statutes and regulations, clearly identifying needs, and carefully planning to meet those needs effectively, the LEA can fulfill the intent and purpose of the IDEA. In alignment with the intent of the IDEA, the e-Grant training will provide participants with the following:

1. Overview of the purpose of the grant.
2. Technical assistance on the grant planning process.
3. Insight on the issues most frequently requiring grants to be returned without approval.
4. New 2009-2010 updates and changes to the grant system.
5. Overview of strategies and activities.
6. Budget Review.
7. Hands-on navigation.
8. Questions and answers.

Schedule

Regions 7 & 8: March 17

Regions 5 & 6: March 18

Regions 3 & 4: March 19

Regions 1 & 2: March 20

Charters Only: March 23

Each Director may bring one person. Do not register more than 2 participants per LEA. Special requests to allow additional guests may be reserved in advance only if there is space available. Email the special request to Iris Jones at iris.jones@la.gov.

Special arrangements may be made if a Director or Supervisor needs to attend a training in another region by sending an email request to Iris Jones at iris.jones@la.gov.

NOTE: Some dates offer repeated sessions (AM session and PM session). Only register for 1 session, either AM or PM.

Participants will learn how to use common software programs to give all students access to stories. The specifics of each program will be covered. Participants will adapt a book or create an original for immediate use in their classroom setting!

November 14 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Baton Rouge - Claiborne Building Alexandria - 502 Beauregard St. Understanding the EIPA - Tips for Success for First Time and Repeat Test Takers This video conference will offer individuals an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the EIPA Performance Assessemnt. We will cover all of the skills that are measured in the Voice-to-Sign portion of the assessment and discuss what constitutes an effective use of each skill. This workshop will facilitate the test preparation process and enable participants to undertake the assessment with a higher degree of confidence. The information will allow individuals to prepare for a more successful testing experience.

This workshop will offer a smorgasbord of tools at no cost to the users. Introducing free software downloads, ideas, activities, lesson plans and various other tools to access the curriculum for students of all ages and abilities.

Handwriting Without Tears Grades 1-5

Our comprehensive, easy-to-use curriculum uses engaging multi-sensory techniques and research-based methods to make handwriting a natural and automatic skill for children of all ages and abilities. We use a fun hands-on approach to develop good skills and teach correct letter formation. The Handwriting Without Tears® Kindergarten-5th Grade workshop provides dynamic instruction in the teaching methodology from kindergarten through cursive.

Handwriting Without Tears PreK-K

The award-winning Get Set for School™ Pre-K program uses lively music and playful activities to help young children build a solid foundation for school success. This upbeat workshop introduces a readiness curriculum full of developmentally appropriate activities that teach children about letters, body awareness, numbers, sequencing, and sharing in a fun, engaging, and informal manner.

This full day workshop will focus on developing IEPs for students with significant disabilities who are eligible to participate in LEAP Alternate Assessment, Level 1 (LAA1). Topics will include: •Navigation of the web-based Access Guide •Shifting to a focus on academic standards/Extended Standards •Linkage to grade level content •Developing goals and objectives •Alternate formats of grade level materials •Literacy as a bridge to access curriculum. The session will include video clips of students/classrooms related to the session content, as well as hands-on practice writing goals and objectives linked to academic standards. This workshop is designed for personnel (e.g., teachers, related service providers, AT specialists, coordinators), who need introductory level information related to the topic. The session may also be suitable to persons who wish to attend for the purpose of preparing themselves for redelivery of content to educators in their respective districts.

This training will provide classroom teachers with an understanding of Kurzweil enabling the teacher to provide differentiated instruction without having to sacrifice the curriculum.

Students with multiple learning needs are presented with many challenges that interfere with their ability to actively participate in instructional activities, particularly in group settings. This presentation will demonstrate to participants how the use of interactive whiteboards can be integrated into existing digital lessons in ways that will support increased student engagement and participation. Participants will receive step-by-step instruction on how to differentiate instruction for students using objectives from the Louisiana Comprehensive Curriculum.

This training will focus on the beginning steps of the writing process, i.e. outlining and webbing, by using Inspiration to facilitate the organization of thoughts. Inspiration is useful for all grades but is recommended for the middle to upper grades.

Participants will receive a basic overview of IntelliKeys by exploring the standard overlays, the USB control panel, and the set-up overlay. They will then be introduced to Overlay Maker 3 to learn the basic skills of creating overlays. Sample activities with overlays will be modeled. Teachers will create an overlay to use in their classroom.

The University of New Orleans Summer Institute on Sensory Impairments sponsored by the Louisiana Low Incidence Disabilities Consortium (LA-LIDC) is offering “hands-on” training on IntelliTools and Kurzweil 3000. This workshop will provide an overview of both programs as well as hands-on experience in using each program.

IntelliTools includes IntelliKeys which provides alternative keyboard access, and Overlay Maker which can provide curriculum access for AAC users, etc. Through these components all students can participate in curriculum-based activities. Through third party products braille overlays for IntelliKeys and IntelliBraille are available. IntelliBraille can be used for instruction in Orientation & Mobility as well as braille code instruction. Kurzweil 3000 is designed for students with reading difficulties. While Kurzweil 1000 is specifically designed for the visually impaired, 3000 may be appropriate for some of low vision students.

Audience
This training is designed for participants in the Summer Institute Assistive Technology class, teachers of the visually impaired, and other interested special education teachers, and therapists who work with students who may need access to these programs. Space is limited to 25 and participants will be accepted in the order listed above.

Presenter
Missy Tatum, LOTR, ATP, is national trainer for IntelliTools and is an authorized Kurzweil representative. She worked for several years as the Occupational Therapist and Assistive Technology Practitioner at LSVI, often working with students with visual impairments and additional disabilities.

Classroom Suite is an invaluable tool for differentiated instruction. It combines the benefits of creativity tools with customizable curriculum activities for students and assessment tools for teachers. This workshop will include training on basic operations such as downloading pre-made activities, editing activities and creating simple activities.

Classroom Suite is an invaluable tool for differentiated instruction. It combines the benefits of creativity tools with customizable curriculum activities for students and assessment tools for teachers. This workshop will include training on basic operations such as downloading pre-made activities, editing activities and creating simple activities.

Participants will use text to speech software to read a brief story. They will also enter answers to questions, learn how to use highlighters, notes, voice notes and other study skills tools to annotate and extract text from the story. They will also learn to adjust reading speed, reading voices, dictionary settings, and tool bar settings. Participants will also receive instruction on importing documents into Kurzweil.

Participants will use text to speech software to read a brief story. They will also enter answers to questions, learn how to use highlighters, notes, voice notes and other study skills tools to annotate and extract text from the story. They will also learn to adjust reading speed, reading voices, dictionary settings, and tool bar settings. Participants will also receive instruction on importing documents into Kurzweil.

Participants will use text to speech software to read a brief story. They will also enter answers to questions, learn how to use highlighters, notes, voice notes and other study skills tools to annotate and extract text from the story. They will also learn to adjust reading speed, reading voices, dictionary settings, and tool bar settings. Participants will also receive instruction on importing documents into Kurzweil.

Participants will use text to speech software to read a brief story. They will also enter answers to questions, learn how to use highlighters, notes, voice notes and other study skills tools to annotate and extract text from the story. They will also learn to adjust reading speed, reading voices, dictionary settings, and tool bar settings. Participants will also receive instruction on importing documents into Kurzweil.

Participants will use text-to-speech software to read a brief story, enter answers on a test and to use a variety of study skills tools such as highlighters, notes, dictionary, thesaurus and bookmarks. They will also learn to customize reading speed, reading voices, dictionary settings and toolbar options to meet the individual needs of each student.

The 5th Annual LATI Summer Institute will be blasting off July 15-17 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This three day conference style journey will take you beyond the barriers of the classroom atmosphere to forge new frontiers of assistive technology. Journey with us as we explore the galaxy of AT from current mandates for accessibility to strategies for implementation and instruction.

As part of the voyage, a networking activity will provide crew members with intergalactic opportunities to join forces with space pioneers from across the state to share ideas and information. Come board our starship as we have close encounters with a mass of opportunities to strengthen your knowledge about AT.

Travel will be reimbursed up to $0.52 per mile and lodging will be reimbursed up to $99 per night (for those traveling more than 50 miles one way) on a first come first served basis.

This meeting is designed to update LEA Coordinators on Section 504 regulations and compliance concerns.

Goals of the summit 1) To explore the connetion between the drop out rate, graduation rate, transition services, and post school outcomes. 2) To increase awareness of available transition related services in the state. 3) To increase interagency collaboration and improve transition outcomes for youth. The summit will feature general sessions, breakout sessions, and poster presentations featuring our national technical assistance centers, local experts, state agency representatives, and community stakeholders.

Region 2 Assistive Technology Center.

Participants will review low-tech accommodations used for test and note taking, and spelling and writing.  By exploring numerous free internet sites for lesson development teachers will find interactive and downloadable instructional materials available to students.

  Come and make a low-tech strategy tool to take back to the classroom!

Participants will review low-tech accommodations used for test and note taking, spelling and writing, and math. Simple solutions for accommodating a range of abilities. By exploring numerous free internet sites for lesson development and skill reinforcement, teachers will discover free interactive and downloadable instructional materials available to students.

Make a low-tech strategy to take back to the classroom!

Simple differentiation that works without a major headache!

The third and final session in the series of assessment trainings for adapted physical education personnel. These presentations will focus on the CTAPE/LaMAP Assessment Supplement, an instrument designed to provide information related to the levels of motor function for students who scored less than 20% during the formal assessment. Updated information on state regulations/policies/procedures will also be addressed. Advanced registration is required. All workshops will begin at 9:30 a.m. and will end at 12:00 noon.

Learn how to edit toolbars, get a word count, create tables, forms and templates, highlight text, sort lists alphabetically and use the "auto text" and "auto correct" features of Word to support student writing skills. This session will address how to create form fill documents and how to add Power Talk to your power point presentation

This workshop is for new district special education supervisors.

You´re invited to attend an Open House at our new location, N. P. Moss Middle School. There will be plenty of mini demonstrations of AT and participants will be entered into drawings to win GREAT door prizes!

You�re invited to attend our Open House to kick off the new school year. There will be plenty of mini demonstrations of AT and participants will be entered into drawings to win GREAT door prizes!

Many students struggle with basic organizational skills. Join me for an informative overview of AT and the simple tools and tricks that can be utilized to help students get organized and ready for learning.

Participants will create various low tech manipulatives using the FREE Pocketmod generator for students to access curriculum content.

PowerPoint 2003 offers more to the classroom than a slideshow. Participants will create e-books and popular game show quizzes as well as basic math operation tables to take back and use in the classroom.

Attendance to both days of the training is required.

PowerPoint 2007 offers more to the classroom than a slideshow. Participants will create e-books and popular game show quizzes as well as basic math operation tables to take back and use in the classroom.

Attendance to both days of the training is required.

National Consultant Barbara Ehren will provide an awareness session on the national perspective of the expanding role of the Speech Language Pathology in schools.

ONLY TWO PERSONS PER DISTRICT MAY ATTEND, PREFERABLY THE SPEECH LANGUAGE PATHOLOGY COORDINATOR AND THE SPECIAL EDUCATION DIRECTOR. UNIVERSITY PARTNERS, FAMILY REPRESENTATIVE AND SELECT LEA PERSONNEL MAY ALSO REGISTER.

This workshop is designed to acquaint participants with the basic premise of UDL and to provide practical, hands-on experience in adapting their curriculum to provide access for ALL learning styles and abilities.

Participants will benefit from an overview of the basic features of the Promethean Board, as well as, the software program that accompanies it. Various free Internet resources will be examined to use with the interactive board. The training will feature demonstrations on how to use the interactive board in a whole group setting, how to use the interactive board as a remediation tool, and finally as an independent learning center. Participants will receive ideas on how to effectively implement the interactive board as a part of the instructional process in the classroom.

Participants will benefit from an overview of the basic features of the Promethean Board, as well as, the software program that accompanies it. Various free Internet resources will be examined to use with the interactive board. The training will feature demonstrations on how to use the interactive board in a whole group setting, how to use the interactive board as a remediation tool, and finally as an independent learning center. Participants will receive ideas on how to effectively implement the interactive board as a part of the instructional process in the classroom.

Prepare your students for real life situations by creating functional activities with low tech to mid tech materials. Various activities will be modeled that were successfully used in Ms. Dupre´s classroom. Examples include the pizza project, the crayon recycling project, and the school store.

‘Literacy for All’ in Louisiana really means all, including students with significant disabilities. To support this end, the Louisiana Department of Education has developed the (draft) Quality Indicators for Literacy Access (Significant Disabilities) to guide practices at the district, building, and classroom levels. These indicators cover areas such as assessment, instruction, evaluation, IEP issues, administrative responsibilities, professional development guidelines, and resources. This workshop will provide an overview of the indicators and how they might be incorporated into a school’s literacy initiative. The workshop will be led by Dr. Caroline Ramsey Musselwhite, a nationally recognized leader in the area of literacy access for students with significant disabilities. The following personnel are encouraged to attend: literacy/reading coaches, regional literacy coordinators, special education teachers, and parents of students with significant disabilities.

October 27 – Alexandria - Lafargue
Special Education Center

October 28 Region 7 Service Center in Shreveport

Sign-in at 8:00
Session runs from 8:30 – 3:30

Participants will learn about a range of AT devices that can be used to support students with disabilities who are struggling in the area of math.

Participants will learn about Assistive Technology and how they can adapt their lessons with different AT tools to allow students with significant disabilities to access the curriculum.

All are invited to attend the Region 1 Assistive Technology Open House on Wednesday September 9, 2009. Come and learn how the center staff can help support local education agencies, parents and community providers by demonstrating various assistive technologies available for students with special needs. This onsite opportunity will provide participants with the chance to explore a variety of AT devices and tools useful for addressing the academic and communication needs of students with disabilities.

Participants will receive an in depth exploration of the Louisiana Assistive Technology Initiative´s Framework for Assistive Technology Consideration, Screening and Referral, per the LA State Department of Education. Principals of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) will be reviewed related to creating instructional environments suitable for all learners.

Participants will learn about a range of assistive technology devices that can be used to support students with disabilities who are struggling in the areas of writing and spelling. Activities will be correlated with the Louisiana Comprehensive Curriculum and the LA Access Guide´s Extended Standards.

In this hands-on lab experience, participants will learn the basic foundational skills of Boardmaker 6.0 and Boardmaker Plus. Learn how to create customized communication overlays, visual schedules and literary supports for students with special needs.

Imagine being so flat you can fit into an envelope and be sent across the country? The ‘Flat Friends’ project focuses on inclusive, cross-curricular activities based on the book, Flat Stanley by John Nash. This project is a springboard for teachers to network with classes around the world. Sharing on the internet we have launched a web project where students become ‘flat’ and send their, pictures, biographies, thoughts and stories. Our focus is to showcase templates and activities from Classroom Suite that are accessible to all users. Attendees will leave with a disc full of activities to use in the classroom.

This course will offer an overview and demonstration of various tools used to access the computer including different types of keyboards, mice, switches and various software. Participants will have hands-on experience using alternate input methods.

Participants will learn how to conduct an assistive technology assessment for communication using A Framework for Conducting Assistive Technology Consideration, Screening and Referral. There will be an introductory review of augmentative/alternative communication(AAC) and a demonstration of tools and devices that can be used in AAC assessment. Sample assessment forms will be used for demonstration and time will be allotted for addressing problem-solving and individual questions.

In this session participants will learn how to customize available reading material and create novel reading material appropriate for use by students with significant reading disabilities. This course will provide specific instruction on using PowerPoint(2003,2007) and a free plug-in PowerTalk to create digital books that narrate customized text. If time permits, instruction will include more advanced tasks such as embedding sounds and altering graphics. Participants will receive a set of free books at the conclusion of this training. Facilitators will demonstrate how to incorporate the use of a completed digital book with students with disabilities. Knowledge of PowerPoint is helpful but not required.

Presenters will demonstrate and guide students on how to use IntelliTools Classroom Suite 4.0 as an instructional tool for use with students who experience learning challenges. Participants will learn how to set up the program for their classroom by assigning activities to students, access built-in templates and customize templates. Activities will be correlated with the LA Comprehensive Curriculum and the LA Access Guide´s Extended Standards.

This one-day hands-on workshop is designed as a follow-up to the AT Continuum full day presentation. This second day of training is designed to use some of the AT tools more extensively, learn how to evaluate with them, go into more details on strategies and tips with some categories of tools, and provide participants with forms and additional information which might be valuable to them. The topics covered on this second day include the following: Low and mid tech tool evaluations; Conducting color evaluations with filters and light; Choosing and training with low and mid tech note-taking tools; Determining keyboarding speed vs. handwriting speed (requires use of AlphaSmart); Organizational tools and strategies for the six areas of organizational concern; Digitized photos – from computer to classroom use; Using the Personal Choices form

In this session, participants will be exposed to a full range of low, mid, and high tech tools (including the use of color, hand held devices, computers, and assistive software) designed to help students function more independently and successfully. Following the belief that people need to know what is available before making choices, this presentation will help participants match needs and strengths to tools; learn about establishing an entire collection of tools to meet variable needs, tasks, and environments; and find out where to get the tools as well as the necessary training. Finally, the presentation will examine the pros and cons of many of the current technologies in order to provide the participants with the best and most thorough options and strategies to consider when making individual or program choices for assistive technology.

This is Course 1 of a 2-day workshop featuring Judi Sweeney discussing integration of assistive technology in the classroom. You must register for each course independently.

Using sample literacy strategies from the LA Comprehensive Curriculum presenters will model how to create accessible instructional materials using text-to-speech software and mp3 players for use at school and home.

Participants will be given opportunities to create low tech make-n-take supports, explore internet sites, AT strategies and software and tools to assist students in math, reading and writing. Activities will be correlated with the Louisiana Access Guide´s Extended Standards.

In this lab session participants will learn the benefits of text-to-speech technology for use with students with disabilities. We will explore a variety of free and subscription-based software programs. Participants will explore how to integrate text-to-speech technology into instructional activities.

In this 3-day workshop participants will learn a range of assistive technology devices that can be used to support students with disabilities who are struggling in the area of math. Participants will have hands-on opportunities with different AT tools and will learn how to incorporate them into the classroom setting. Participants will also be introduced to free internet support sites and various math software programs.

Participants will explore the many benefits of designing instructional materials using a variety of visual aids that can be used across the curriculum. Hands-on creation of adapted curricular materials will include picture schedules, visual reminders, reading supports, portable prompts and other classroom instructional supports. Bring along your creative ideas and prepare for a day of fun!

Region II Center for Assistive Technology Professional Development will present the math access options for instruction Module, Part 1.

Kids sometimes need a variety of instructional methods and tools to grasp math concepts. Using an activity from the Louisiana Comprehensive Curriculum as a base, this training will be focused on introducing fun tutorial and reinforcement internet sites, low tech AT strategies and software to help students to learn or improve mathematical skills. Add these valuable resources for teaching and reinforcing math skills to your Differentiation know-how. At the end of the day sign up for Part 2 of the Access to Math Module.

Adapt a book for almost any student’s access or cognitive abilities to take back to your classroom.

Participants will learn a variety of ways to make a digital and physical book accessible for a young student who needs alternative ways to enjoy reading.

Please bring thumb drive to copy any downloaded or files developed during training. Lab is located on first floor of the Iberville Optional Education Center. Enter through door beneath the building´s front stairs.

Survey the Louisiana Assistive Technology Initiative (LATI) guidelines for evaluating what a student may need for computer access.

By seeing hardware and software demonstrated and using LATI guidelines, determine a starting place or possible solutions for described students with disabilities.

Please bring thumb drive to copy any downloaded or files developed during training. Lab is located on first floor of the Iberville Optional Education Center. Enter through door beneath the building´s front stairs.

Imagine being so flat you can fit into an envelope and be sent across the country!

The ‘Flat Friends’ project focuses on inclusive, cross-curricular activities based on the book, Flat Stanley by John Nash. This project is a springboard for teachers to network with classes around the world. IntelliTools has launched a web project where students become ‘flat’ and send their, pictures, biographies, thoughts and stories. The focus is to showcase templates and activities from Classroom Suite that are accessible to all users.
Attendees will leave with a disc full of activities to use in the classroom.
Note: The two Flat Friends sessions are the same presentation. Please register for only one session.

Enlist the software and internet as a creative means to engage students in adding graphics to their writing efforts and to your instructional resources.

Use Microsoft’s Paint and Word, the free OpenOffice, Gimp2 and Jing, and other website resources to produce teaching materials or personal use stationary and cards easily. Don’t be intimidated, you too can copy images, change the their features and paste.

Please bring thumb drive to copy any downloaded or files developed during training. Lab is located on first floor of the Iberville Optional Education Center. Enter through door beneath the building´s front stairs.

Panel discussions, breakout sessions, and hands-on activities will be geared to address effective and seamless linkages for students with disabilities to enter post-secondary education and the world of work.

In this 3-day module participants will learn about the range of AT solutions availiable to support reading success in the classroom. Participants will have hands on experience with many tools and learn how to incoorportate into the classroom setting. Participants will complete various assignments to share with others on the last day of the course.

Imagine being so flat you can fit into an envelope and be sent across the country? The ‘Flat Friends’ project focuses on inclusive, cross-curricular activities based on the book, Flat Stanley by John Nash. This project is a springboard for teachers to network with classes around the world. Sharing on the internet we have launched a web project where students become ‘flat’ and send their, pictures, biographies, thoughts and stories. Our focus is to showcase templates and activities from Classroom Suite that are accessible to all users.

This session will provide instruction on how to use low tech tools for reading, writing, math and communication. Each participant will make & take several tools to be used in the classroom and the community.

In this 3-day module participants will learn about the range of AT solutions availiable to support Math success in the classroom. Participants will have hands on experience with many tools and learn how to incoorportate into the classroom setting. Participants will complete various assignments to share with others on the last day of the course.

Participants will receive a basic overview of IntelliKeys by exploring the standard overlays, the USB control panel, and the set-up overlay. They will then be introduced to Overlay Maker 3 to learn the basic skills of creating overlays. Sample activities with overlays will be modeled. Teachers will create an overlay to use in their classroom.

Participants will create various low tech manipulatives using the FREE Pocketmod generator for students to access curriculum content.

During this training we will create a variety of visual supports for use in the classroom. We will also share tips on introducing visual supports to help you and your students maximize their potential. This will be a busy but worthwhile make and take session!

K-12 Integrating of AT and Inclusion into existing curriculums, recommended for Pre-through 5 Attendees will leave with a disc full of activities to use in the classroom. Imagine being so flat you can fit into an envelope and be sent across the country? The ‘Flat Friends’ project focuses on inclusive, cross-curricular activities based on the book, Flat Stanley by John Nash. This project is a springboard for teachers to network with classes around the world. Sharing on the internet we have launched a web project where students become ‘flat’ and send their, pictures, biographies, thoughts and stories. Our focus is to showcase templates and activities from Classroom Suite that are accessible to all users. The story Flat Stanley serves to set the stage. In this 3rd grade book, commonly read in classrooms as supplemental reading, Stanley is flattened and imagination takes over as he becomes a hero, daily wonder and even sent to visit a friend through the US Mail. Often teachers will extend the lesson into Language Arts by having students compose a letter to introduce Stanley and mail his picture to friends to decorate and mail back. The letters and pictures they receive are often posted on bulletin boards and become not only language arts lessons but also geography, art and math. Students can virtually visit a school in Italy as well as see Flat Chase and Hoover on a trip to Antarctica.

Participants will use text to speech software to read a brief story. They will also enter answers to questions, learn how to use highlighters, notes, voice notes and other study skills tools to annotate and extract text from the story. They will also learn to adjust reading speed, reading voices, dictionary settings, and tool bar settings. Participants will also receive instruction on importing documents into Kurzweil.

News-2-You is a weekly current events online newspaper. Participants will learn how to download the newspaper along with related symbols to be used in Boardmaker. Saving and organizing your papers will be covered with practical examples of how to use the paper with all students.

Participants will benefit from an overview of the basic features of the Promethean board as well as, the software programs that accompany each device. Various free Internet resources will be examined to use with the interactive board. The training will feature demonstrations on how to use the interactive board in a whole group setting, how to use the interactive board as a remediation tool, and finally as an independent learning center. Participants will receive ideas on how to effectively implement the interactive board as a part of the instructional process in the classroom. *If you are in need of SMART Board Training please contact our office.

This training is for professionals working with students that need alternate access to the curriculum. Participants will be introduced to various switches and their usage. Topics covered include; how a switch works, types of switches, switch setup, and choosing the right switch.

The purpose of these professional development modules and additional resources are intended to make educators more aware of the benefits that technology play in providing greater access to learning for students with a variety of disabilities.

Participants will be exposed to the three-tiered intervention model for RTI. Participants will be trained to use both software programs, Clicker 5 and Cloze Pro to implement remediation activities for struggling students. Progress monitoring will also be discussed and several websites will be reviewed for utilizing the necessary forms to effectively monitor a student’s progress. Participants will leave with resources and knowledge for immediate implementation in the classroom.

Enrich the learning environment with BoardMaker! Participants will learn BoardMaker Basics and how to create and download activities for their students. Join us and discover the many ways BoardMaker can enhance your classroom. Participants will create custom activities to take back to their classroom!

Classroom Suite is an invaluable tool for differentiated instruction. It combines the benefits of creativity tools with customizable curriculum activities for students and assessment tools for teachers. This workshop will include training on basic operations such as downloading pre-made activities, editing activities, and creating simple activities.

An introduction to Clicker 5, a reading and writing tool that uses a talking word processor and picture support. This versatile program enables teachers to modify activities to address the reading and writing needs of each student. This training will cover modifying grids, creating your own grids and downloading/modifying free grids from the internet.

Participants will learn how to use common software programs to give all students access to stories. The specifics of each program will be covered. Participants will adapt a book or create an original for immediate use in their classroom setting!

K-12 Integrating of AT and Inclusion into existing curriculums, recommended for Pre-through 5 Attendees will leave with a disc full of activities to use in the classroom. Imagine being so flat you can fit into an envelope and be sent across the country? The ‘Flat Friends’ project focuses on inclusive, cross-curricular activities based on the book, Flat Stanley by John Nash. This project is a springboard for teachers to network with classes around the world. Sharing on the internet we have launched a web project where students become ‘flat’ and send their, pictures, biographies, thoughts and stories. Our focus is to showcase templates and activities from Classroom Suite that are accessible to all users. The story Flat Stanley serves to set the stage. In this 3rd grade book, commonly read in classrooms as supplemental reading, Stanley is flattened and imagination takes over as he becomes a hero, daily wonder and even sent to visit a friend through the US Mail. Often teachers will extend the lesson into Language Arts by having students compose a letter to introduce Stanley and mail his picture to friends to decorate and mail back. The letters and pictures they receive are often posted on bulletin boards and become not only language arts lessons but also geography, art and math. Students can virtually visit a school in Italy as well as see Flat Chase and Hoover on a trip to Antarctica.

This workshop will offer a smorgasbord of tools at no cost to the users. Introducing free software downloads, ideas, activities, lesson plans and various other tools to access the curriculum for students of all ages and abilities.

Participants will receive a basic overview of IntelliKeys by exploring the standard overlays, the USB control panel, and the set-up overlay. They will then be introduced to Overlay Maker 3 to learn the basic skills of creating overlays. Sample activities with overlays will be modeled. Teachers will create an overlay to use in their classroom.

Participants will use text to speech software to read a brief story. They will also enter answers to questions, learn how to use highlighters, notes, voice notes and other study skills tools to annotate and extract text from the story. They will also learn to adjust reading speed, reading voices, dictionary settings, and tool bar settings. Participants will also receive instruction on importing documents into Kurweil

Learn how to edit toolbars, get a word count, create tables, forms and templates, highlight text, sort lists alphabetically and use the "auto text" and "auto correct" features of Word to support student writing skills. This session will address how to create form fill documents and how to add Power Talk to your power point presentation

Participants will benefit from an overview of the basic features of the Promethean board as well as, the software programs that accompany each device. Various free Internet resources will be examined to use with the interactive board. The training will feature demonstrations on how to use the interactive board in a whole group setting, how to use the interactive board as a remediation tool, and finally as an independent learning center. Participants will receive ideas on how to effectively implement the interactive board as a part of the instructional process in the classroom. This training is being offered for SSD participants only.

Participants will benefit from an overview of the basic features of the Promethean board as well as, the software programs that accompany each device. Various free Internet resources will be examined to use with the interactive board. The training will feature demonstrations on how to use the interactive board in a whole group setting, how to use the interactive board as a remediation tool, and finally as an independent learning center. Participants will receive ideas on how to effectively implement the interactive board as a part of the instructional process in the classroom. *If you are in need of SMART Board Training please contact our office.

Participants will benefit from an overview of the basic features of the Promethean board as well as, the software programs that accompany each device. Various free Internet resources will be examined to use with the interactive board. The training will feature demonstrations on how to use the interactive board in a whole group setting, how to use the interactive board as a remediation tool, and finally as an independent learning center. Participants will receive ideas on how to effectively implement the interactive board as a part of the instructional process in the classroom. *If you are in need of SMART Board Training please contact our office.

Participants will learn about a range of AT devices that can be used to support students with disabilities who are struggling in the area of writing. This is a 3 day training.

Restricted Participation to Invited Participants of the District AT Team Members in Regions 4, 6, and 7.

This training will include 3 face-to-face sessions and online sessions over a 10 week period to provide specific skills, resources and coaching for building AT capacity throughout LA districts in support of the LAT Initiatives at http://www.louisianaschools.net/lde/eia/1538.html

NOTE: Check that your name, e-mail address and phone information listed in Coursewhere is accurate when you register and in the format that you would want printed on your CLU certificate. This information will be used to print sign-in, name tags, certificates and set up your online Blackboard session account.

Don’t miss out on this week long training composed of almost every aspect of Assistive Technology you can imagine. During this make-and-take style training, time will be dedicated to literacy and making it accessible, using multimedia in the classroom, adapting math lessons to the learner and different learning styles. Participants will walk away with many useful resources and activities. Sign up for the days that meet your needs. The schedule is as follows:

MONDAY, JUNE 8, 2009 - AT in the English/language arts classroom

TUESDAY, JUNE 9 2009 - AT in the Math classroom

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 10, 2009 - Augmentative Communication and AT

THURSDAY, JUNE 11, 2009 - Utilizing Microsoft Office 2007 in a classroom setting

Friday, JUNE 12, 2009 - Incorporating Intellitools v.4 and Kurzweil 3000 into the curriculum

A variety of free resources will be revealed along with ideas for implementation during the first part of this session to be followed by time to adapt materials for use in your classroom. (Hands-on Lab)

Giving students with special needs age appropriate material to read is important. These sessions will be spent applying different methods of adapting novels being read by their peers.(Make-n-Take)

Session 1 - Middle School
Session 2 - High School

The session will brief you in the very basics of the Boardmaker program. Implementation ideas and alternate uses of the boards will be discussed. Time at the end of the session will be given to create/adapt materials for use in your classroom. (Hands-on Lab)

This session will be spent creating activities to use with students with special needs. An intermediate knowledge of the Boardmaker program is a must to attend this session. (Make-n-Take)

This 2 hour session will be jam packed with free or relatively inexpensive tools to use with your students to make the curriculum accessible. (Hands-on Lab)

Classroom Suite v.4 incorporates customizable lessons for each student in the areas of Reading, Language Arts, and Math. Come and explore the ways this program can benefit all of your students. (Hands-on Lab)

Do you know your legal responsibilities with regard to federal law and assistive technology? Judith explains the many issues surrounding federal mandates regarding AT and shows administrators how to fulfill their obligations to the federal government and their students. Keeping up with current trends can be a daunting task as we see changes quickly taking place.

The two sessions will be identical content. Please only register for one.

           Region 7 ATC- Presents Judith Sweeney: Technology Tools and Organization and Time-Saving Technology [A]

Organizational skills plague many students in --- and out – of special education. This session: Participants will learn to identify organizational problems their students face (temporal, spatial, categorical, attentional, or prioritization), and how to use a variety of low, mid and high tech tools that help produce independent and successful learners. Participants will learn their own strengths and weaknesses through hands-on individual and group activities.
Also,
SOS... (Save Our Sanity!). Maximize your time and effort through the use of technology. We´ll cover a wide variety of programs available with special emphasis on Ms Word, PowerPoint, OmniGraffle, and Adobe Acrobat, as well as tools for managing, enhancing, and using digital images, and sounds. Computerize typical paper and pencil tasks.

           Region 7 ATC-Accessibility Quick Tips for MS Word/Open Lab

A condensed version of the complete MS Word training will be offered for the first half of the session followed by time to adapt materials for students with special needs in your classroom.

           Region 7 ATC-Accessibility Tips Using MS Word 2007

MS Word has many features within itself to help teachers make the curriculum accessible to students. Join us for an in-depth look at parts of this program you might not have known existed. (Hands-on Lab)

           Region 7 ATC-AT for the Math Classroom [A]

In this 3 day train-the-trainer format, participants will focus on assistive technology devices and strategies to support students with deficits in math.

           Region 7 ATC-AT Solutions for Reading Success [A]

In this 3 day train-the-trainer format, participants will focus on assistive technology devices and strategies to support students with reading deficits.

           Region 7 ATC-Beginning Boardmaker

A program developed for AAC use has endless possibilities for multiple populations. This training will develop your skills at using the program from the very basics. (Hands-on Lab)

           Region 7 ATC-Data and Student Tracking

This session will be spent exploring different techniques that can be used to track the progress of your students and collect data on their progress. (Presentation)

           Region 7 ATC-Intellitools Introduces Flat Friends

Imagine being so flat you can fit into an envelope and be sent across the country? The ‘Flat Friends’ project focuses on inclusive, cross-curricular activities based on the book, Flat Stanley by John Nash. This project is a springboard for teachers to network with classes around the world. Sharing on the internet we have launched a web project where students become ‘flat’ and send their, pictures, biographies, thoughts and stories. Our focus is to showcase templates and activities from Classroom Suite that are accessible to all users. Attendees will leave with a disc full of activities to use in the classroom. You will be responsible for duplicating disc for the workshops.

           Region 7 ATC-Kruzweil Overview/Open Lab

Kurzweil 3000 can be integrated into every aspect of the curriculum. Textbooks, trade books, even webpages can be imported and manipulated to give students access to parts of the curriculum that otherwise may not be available. The first part of this session will give you an overview of what great things this program can do to help your students followed by time to work independently on the program or adapt materials for your students with special needs. (Hands-on Lab)

           Region 7 ATC-Making PowerPoint 2007 Useful in the Classroom [A]

PowerPoint is more than just a presentation tool. This program has many capabilities to make the curriculum accessible to every student. Join us to see how a program you already have access to can be a very useful tool in your classroom. (Hands-on Lab)

           Region 7 ATC-Open Lab

Open Lab are two days dedicated to the Region 7 Strategists helping you to adapt materials for your students with special needs. All equipment will be available for demonstration and for you to try for yourself. (Hands-on Lab)

           Region 7 ATC-Photo Story 3/Open Lab

The first half of this session will be spent exploring features of Microsoft Photo Story 3, a free program, to create e-activities for use with students with special needs followed by time to adapt materials to use in your classroom. (Hands-on Lab)

           Region 7 ATC-Supporting Writing and Spelling Skills through the use of AT [A]

In this 3 day train-the-trainer format, participants will focus on assistive technology devices and strategies to support students with writing and spelling deficits.

           Region 8 ATC -Intellitools Introduces Flat Friends

Imagine being so flat you can fit into an envelope and be sent across the country? The ‘Flat Friends’ project focuses on inclusive, cross-curricular activities based on the book, Flat Stanley by John Nash. This project is a springboard for teachers to network with classes around the world. Sharing on the internet we have launched a web project where students become ‘flat’ and send their, pictures, biographies, thoughts and stories. Our focus is to showcase templates and activities from Classroom Suite that are accessible to all users. Attendees will leave with a disc full of activities to use in the classroom. You will be responsible for duplicating disc for the workshops.

           Region 8 ATC Boardmaker 6.0 Basics

This is a hands-on workshop of the software Boardmaker. Participants will make games, communication displays, schedules and many more things to take back and use in their classroom.

           Region 8 ATC Part 1-Assistive Technology Tools for Struggling Writers

There is a wide range of assistive technology (AT) tools available to help students who struggle with writing. Some of these tools help students circumvent the actual physical task of writing, while others facilitate proper spelling, punctuation, grammar, word usage, and organization. Find out how to select assistive technology tools that address your child´s specific writing difficulties. This workshop has 2 parts and you must attend both sessions to receive CLU credit.

           Region 8 ATC- Intellitools Classroom Suite v.4 [A]

Classroom Suite v.4 incorporates customizable lessons for each student in the areas of Reading, Language Arts, and Math. Come and explore the ways this program can benefit all of your students. (Hands-on Lab)

           Region 8 ATC-Adapting lessons using Assistive Technology for students with Significant Disabilities

Participants will learn about Assistive Technology and how they can adapt their lessons with different AT tools to allow students with significant disabilities to access the curriculum. The Louisiana Access Guide will be covered and the participants will be able to make activities to take back and use in the classroom.

           Region 8 ATC-The Louisiana Access Guide -Adapting Lessons for Students with Significant Disabilities [A]

Participants will learn about Assistive Technology and how they can adapt their lessons with different AT tools to allow students with significant disabilities to access the curriculum. The Louisiana Access Guide will be covered and the participants will be able to make activities to take back and use in the classroom.

           Signing Exact English Skillshop

The Signing Exact English (S.E.E.) Skillshop will be offered this summer in Baton Rouge at the Claiborne Building.

This skillshop is designed for individuals interested in learning S.E.E. and to help those already using S.E.E. to improve their expressive and receptive signing skills. Intensive work is done in groups limited to approximately twenty participants.

Sessions are geared for adult level, and are not appropriate for children under sixteen years of age.

Participants
This training is for teachers, educational interpreters, parents and others who want to learn as well as those who use Signing Exact English and wish to improve their vocabulary, fluency, and expressiveness.

Objectives
Participants review vocabulary and do extensive work on additional signs, visual features of sign language, song and story telling techniques.

           SLP Task Force to Expand Roles of SLP

The meetng is for INVITED participants ONLY to serve on SLP Task Force.

           SmartBoard/Promethean -Beginner

Participants will benefit from an overview of the basic features of the SMART board (and or the Promethean board) as well as, the software programs that accompany each device. Various free Internet resources will be examined to use with the interactive board. The training will feature demonstrations on how to use the interactive board in a whole group setting, how to use the interactive board as a remediation tool, and finally as an independent learning center. Participants will receive ideas on how to effectively implement the interactive board as a part of the instructional process in the classroom.

           SmartBoard/Promethean Board in the Classroom

Participants will benefit from an overview of the basic features of the SMART board (and or the Promethean board) as well as, the software programs that accompany each device. Various free Internet resources will be examined to use with the interactive board. The training will feature demonstrations on how to use the interactive board in a whole group setting, how to use the interactive board as a remediation tool, and finally as an independent learning center. Participants will receive ideas on how to effectively implement the interactive board as a part of the instructional process in the classroom.

           SmartBoard/Promethean Board in the Classroom- Intermediate

Prerequisite: Must have working knowledge of Interactive boards or Beginning SMART/Promethean course This session will briefly review the basic tools and functions of the SMART board. The focus will be on creating lessons that are theme based using the SMART galleries, backgrounds, colors, sounds, and other outside resources. The intent of the lesson is to encompass all the learning styles and to align the design of the lesson with the "UDL" approach to teaching.

           Special Education Directors Meeting - Reading First

This registration is for Special Education Directors of Reading First and non-Reading First school districts. Debra Dixon and staff will present information about the Reading First program.

           Standards-Based IEP Training [A]

Standards-Based IEPs are driven by changes to both the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the current Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA)- known as No Child Left Behind (NCLB). Students� IEPs must reflect goals based on the grade-level content standards and provide for monitoring of the students� progress in achieving those goals. It is mandated that IEPs be standards-based beginning July 1, 2009.

           Successfully Using Intellikeys and Overlay Maker

Participants will learn the power of Intellikeys and Overlay Maker. This device can provide access and many curriculum related and leisure activities for students who cannot access a typical keyboard.

           Support for the Struggling Writer -R4/6

Participants will learn about a range of AT devices that can be used to support students with disabilities who are struggling in the area of writing.

           Support for the Struggling Writer with Don Johnston

Participants will learn about a range of AT devices that can be used to support students with disabilities who are struggling in the area of writing.

           Text to Speech Options Help!

Region II Center for Assistive Technology Professional Development will present text-to-speech options for instruction.

Students with reading difficulties can benefit from access to free and commercial text to speech software. Word recognition and comprehension usually improves along with independent working in the classroom. Session participants will survey free or subscription e-books, text-to-speech software and other internet resources providing a wealth of choices to engage kids and make them feel successful. Information on AIM (Accessible Instructional Materials" and NIMAS formats for "print disabled" students will be included as part of this training.

           Text to Speech Options Intermediate

Region II Center for Assistive Technology Professional Development will present text-to-speech options for instruction.

Students with reading difficulties can benefit from text being read to them. Word recognition and comprehension usually improves along with independent working in the classroom. Free and commercial text-to-speech software offer students access to and independence in reading instructional or personal interest materials. Participants will be introduced to and have hands-on experience with a variety of internet resources providing access to free or subscription e-books and software.

           Text-to-Speech +LCC =Success

Participants will see examples of literacy strategy implementation correlated with the Louisiana Comprehensive Curriculum. Various Text-to-Speech software, PowerPoint add-ons and other technology such as MP3 players will be demonstrated as a way to provide students with multiple ways to access reading materials.

A resource list will be provided along with other useful materials.

           The Talent Connection Forum

This forum will include an update on the gifted and talented visual arts, music and theatre programs, viewings of displays, gathering of ideas, group discussions in each talent area, and demonstrations. The coordinator and one teacher from each talent program from each distric are invited to attend.

           Training for District Contacts for AIM and Designated Competent Authority

This webinar is designed to provide an overview of the framework and forms developed by the Louisiana Department of Education (LDE) to assist districts in making determinations about student needs for accessible instructional materials and eligibility under the NIMAS criteria for "print disability". A guide for making decisions will be provided. Registration will be limited to those individuals at the district level assigned as the AIM contact or the desinated "Competent Authority". This webinar will not provide an overview of the AIM ordering process. For information on ordering AIM, contact jackie.bobbet@la.gov.

           Universal Design for Learning to Differentiate, Motivate and Educate

SOLO™ by Don Johnston Incorporated is a software program that builds learning skills in reading, writing, planning, organizing, revising and editing for students in grades 3 to 12. Educators can differentiate instruction with individualized student preferences through SOLO’s 4 components: Read:OutLoud®, Write:OutLoud®, Draft:Builder® and Co:Writer®. When using SOLO students develop active thinking and reading comprehension skills in reading, research projects and essay writing. SOLO is just one of the many supplemental solutions Don Johnston offers to meet the needs of a diverse classroom. Start-to-Finish® Publishing series by Don Johnston Incorporated is an engaging, standards-based literacy solution for older, struggling students. This publishing line includes over 100 high-interest titles that are carefully written and edited to match the interests and issues of older beginning or struggling readers. Each book is available in three formats: paperback book, audio book and computer book for differentiated support. Start-to-Finish books increase fluency and comprehension to create successful independent reading experiences.

           Using Text-to-Speech Software to Adapt the Curriculum and Modify Testing Materials

This seminar will provide manufacturer representative overviews of SOLO Literacy Suite and Kurzwiel 3000 text-to-speech software. The Louisiana Department of Education’s suggests e-readers and optical character recognition software as options for students who need this type of support to access testing materials. SOLO is a seamless integration of Co:Writer, Read:OutLoud, Draft:Builder, and Write:OutLoud software. It is designed to move students from reading comprehension through written expression by adapting curriculum and testing materials. Kurzweil 3000 allows educators to customize testing accommodations to conform to individual IEP specifications and/or testing regulations. Both programs offer a customizable “Universal Design for Learning” selection of writing tools, comprehension aids and visual modifications.

           Vineland II Training - 10/27/08

This course is for pupil appraisal staff to learn to administer, score, and interpret the Vineland II.

           Visual Phonics: MultiSensory Decoding Skills

The Louisiana Department of Education is offering training on Visual Phonics: Multi-Sensory Decoding Skills. This workshop will teach the Visual Phonics (See the Sound) Program and its benefits in reinforcing oral language, speech, literacy, and writing skills for students who are bilingual or possess diverse learning needs. Visual phonics is a simple tool that makes auditory, visual, and kinesthetic connections between printed symbols and sounds. This tool is easily implemented and supports current curriculum, phonics programs, and articulation therapy. Audience
This training is designed for special education teachers, regular education teachers, therapists, and others who work with students needing visual representation of phonics.

Presenter
John Bond is a Visual Phonics (See the Sound) national trainer and an Educational Specialist in Deaf Education.
CLU Information 12 CLUs can be earned for participation in both days of training.