COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA

DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

P.O. BOX 2120

RICHMOND, VIRGINIA 23218-2120

SUPTS. MEMO NO. 103

June 13, 2003

INFORMATIONAL

TO:	Division Superintendents
FROM:	Jo Lynne DeMary Superintendent of Public Instruction
SUBJECT:	Distribution of Assistive Technology Funds for Students with Disabilities

The Virginia Department of Education will distribute federal special education funds for assistive technology training and equipment. School divisions that completed the statewide assistive technology needs assessment conducted by the Longwood University Institute for Teaching Through Technology and Innovative Practices (ITTIP) may apply for funds up to $2,000. These funds may be used for training in assistive technology and the purchase of equipment and software to assist students with disabilities. Funds also may be used to pay for assistive technology courses for staff members providing services and support for students with disabilities. Technical assistance may be obtained from sources listed on Attachment A.

Applicants are required to obtain approval prior to spending the assistive technology funds. Funds must be spent and training completed by September 30, 2003. Final reimbursement requests must be submitted by October 31, 2003.

An application form and examples of equipment, software, and training opportunities (Attachment B)are attached. These examples are not restrictive and do not limit school divisions ability to use technology funds. Questions regarding this application should be directed to Mrs. Sharon E. Siler, education specialist at (804) 225-2711 or mailto:ssiler@mail.vak12ed.edu.

Please submit all applications no later than July 7, 2003, via fax at (804) 371-8796 to Ms. Kim Shackelford, Office of Special Education. Note: Please do not submit applications by mail.

JLD:kts

/administrators/superintendents_memos/2003/inf103a.pdf

/administrators/superintendents_memos/2003/inf103b.pdf