Guide to Session Strands
AAC
Sessions focusing on AT for speech
AT
Sessions spotlighting a variety of AT solutions
CUR
Sessions centered on current and trending AT
DA
Sessions to enhance digital accessibility
EDU
Sessions with an emphasis on AT in K-12 schools
EMP
Sessions highlighting the use of AT in employment
HRG
Sessions emphasizing AT for hearing
PP
Sessions focused on AT related policies and practices
VIS
Sessions emphasizing AT for vision
Monday, April 8, 2024 (8:30 AM to 9:30 AM – Session Series 1)
Amanda Dovin, Rehabilitation Services for the Blind
This session will compare and contrast the built-in accessibility features found in the Apple and Android systems. How are they different? How are they the same? How do you perform basic functions? Let’s dive in, and discover
the differences that make both of these platforms user friendly for blind and visually impaired users.
Susan Koerner, University of Kansas Medical Center
Shared reading promotes attention and literacy. It is also a means for helping AAC users to see their communication device in a whole new light. Attendees to this session will learn about centering AAC intervention plans
around shared reading activities. Sample lesson plans will be explored and audience members will have the opportunity to create lesson plans related to books they have in their libraries. Finally, different methods of organizing
materials to streamline their implementation will be explored.
Stephen Kinstler, United Access
When faced with a physical disability, mobility challenges in our community abound. Adapting a vehicle can provide a valuable tool towards independence and community participation. We will explore adaptations that can be
done to vehicles, including transporting a mobility device, installing adaptive driving systems and modifying a vehicle for wheelchair seated driving or transport.
Jennifer Hulme and
Jody Michael, Hulme Resources
This presentation will explore the transformative impact of ChatGPT for individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) and its potential to revolutionize social service practices. ChatGPT, an AI-powered
communication tool, offers tailored assistance, skill development avenues, and enhanced accessibility, fostering independence for individuals with I/DD. Additionally, it presents opportunities for professionals in the field
to optimize support services and improve inclusivity.
Brandon Conrad, MatchWare
Theory based and proven to be great for planning, brainstorming and writing comprehension, Mind Mapping helps individuals – especially those who have been diagnosed with ADHD, Dyslexia, Autism and Executive Function Disorder
– overcome difficulties. This interactive session will guide attendees through Mind Mapping best practices and will also illustrate how, when paired with technology, Mind Mapping enhances creativity, clarifies thinking, and
improves understanding.
Amber Cheek &
Ellie Stitzer – University of Missouri
Requesting accommodations in the workplace can be daunting, regardless of whether a person with a disability is transitioning from school to work or an experienced professional. This session will provide concrete information
and tools to help persons with disabilities work through the accommodation process with an employer, including when and how to disclose a disability, how to request accommodations, and other advice about the interactive process.
The presenters will showcase creative solutions for various disabilities and share the lessons learned from over a 900 accommodation processes.
Steffanie Weil &
Cheryl Green, Caption Call by Sorenson
“I hear fine, it’s just that people mumble!” Sound familiar? This session will explain what hearing loss is, why it’s so hard to understand speech, and the related health problems. Attendees will also learn three simple
communication strategies to make it easier to communicate with people who have hearing loss. Bring all your burning questions about hearing loss, hearing aids, and ears. We’ll even play some hearing trivia along the way in
this fun and educational session.
Monday, APRIL 8, 2024 (10:00 AM to 11:00 AM – Session Series 2)
Megan Aragon, East Texas Lighthouse
This session will discuss strategies and approaches for delivering engaging, effective and fast-paced virtual group training to individuals who are blind or have low vision. We will explore the key differences between traditional
assistive and mainstream technology training programs, as well as learn about the benefits and trade-offs between traditional and virtual group training. Tactics practitioners can use to determine the appropriateness of a
course for virtual group training, strategies to ensure students can succeed, methods to energize and engage students, unique approaches to utilizing features of webinar software, and managing technical difficulties without
slowing class progress will all be discussed in this fun and interactive session.
Kara Adams, Missouri Assistive Technology &
Kristen Ponce, Park Hill School District
This session is for parents, educators, and anyone else working with students who use AAC. We will cover important things to keep in mind, tips for implementation, how to collaborate effectively with other professionals
to support the AAC user, good resources, and more!
Shelly Brown, Missouri Division of Developmental Disabilities
With the development of technology serving as a support option, we are seeing new and innovative ways to keep individuals safe and independent in their homes. During this panel session, we will gain perspective from technology
providers and individuals currently using technology for support and how it has enhanced independence and helped them remain in the home of their choice.
Heidi Rich, DeafLEAD
What do laws say about accessibility and what the options are will form the basis for this session which will look at the benefits of having a live interpreter versus using technology and how and when they can be used together.
We will also look at possible legal ramifications and how they can affect your choice, as well as share resources and help you connect with appropriate local agencies.
Sennora Williams, MC5 &
David Carnahan, Self-Advocate
This session will delve into the world of assistive technology and its profound impact on improving individuals’ personal, social, and professional lives. The presentation will conclude with a Q&A as we invite the audience
to engage further with the topic, emphasizing that assistive technology is not just about devices, but about empowering people to lead fuller, more inclusive lives.
Madison Obert, Director of Operations, Lumicaretech
In this enlightening session, we’ll delve into the diverse realm of assistive technology, unraveling its potential to empower individuals with neuro and physical differences throughout their lives. Navigating through various types of assistive tools, we’ll explore the common pitfalls that hinder sustained success and independence. From Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) applications to low vision devices, and from applications fostering independence to cutting-edge home automation devices, we’ll uncover the solutions that ensure these technologies remain valuable and effective over time. Join us to unlock the enduring power of assistive technology for lifelong empowerment.
RJ Cooper, RJ Cooper & Associates
Creating messages via an AAC device or other AT equipment is very slow, maximum 20 word/minute (WPM).
Typical spoken conversations take place at 180 WPM and above. The conversation partner is easily lulled to a less engaged state while the AAC user composes their message. This presentation suggests and documents an additional output device (monitor) to allow the partner to see the AAC user composing their message, thus retaining the partner’s attention.
Monday, APRIL 8, 2024 (11:30 AM to 12:30 PM – Sessions Series 3)
Mike McQueen, Missouri School for the Blind
In the first half of this session, participants will learn about the Missouri School for the Blind’s Laser Printing Work Experience Program. We’ll discuss the collaboration between students and staff, examine teaching techniques
for laser cutting, and discuss the positive impact the program has made in the community. The second half of the session will focus on VoiceOver accessible productivity apps useful for low vision and blind students at home,
school, work, or on the go.
Heather Roach, AACExperience
This engaging session will focus on fostering collaboration – and redefining traditional roles- among AAC users, families, educators, therapy teams and healthcare professionals, all drawn from my 15 years in special education,
experience as a parent of an AAC user, and my current role as an AAC/educational consultant. Through real-life examples and tips learned, we’ll explore innovative strategies for a transdisciplinary approach, discover practical
methods for communication, assistive technology, and fostering independence and learn actionable approaches to bridge gaps between education and healthcare, as well as between the school and outpatient teams. Come ready to
share, ask questions, and leave with a renewed commitment to creating inclusive environments for AAC users.
Ashley Roberts &
Elizabeth Curtis, University of Missouri Sinclair School of Nursing
For individuals enrolled in ASSETs for AIP, we rely on a suite of digital health technologies, including open-source smart home technologies and consumer-grade wearable devices to monitor activity patterns to identify changes
in activity and health. Our care coordination team uses these data as well as client assessments to engage with clients to help them maintain independence.
Kevin Hollinger, Francis Howell School District
This session introduces the expectation for “accessible” documents – how to use built-in tools as well as tips and tricks to create and share documents which can be efficiently navigated for users of screen readers and for
persons with print disabilities. This session discusses Accessible Education Materials (AEM) and material production, Microsoft Word and PowerPoint, Google Docs and Slides, and the use of Equation Editor.
Abbie O’Sullivan &
Angela Branson, University of Missouri
When it comes to post-secondary accommodations, technology is becoming the norm. We will emphasize how technology plays a pivotal role in the differences between accommodations in K-12 and the college level and discuss cost-effective
software and tools for the digital learning environment. By the end of this presentation, participants will have information to assist their students in navigating the digital landscape, making education accessible and meaningful
for students with diverse learning needs. Resources for free programs, built-in tools (Microsoft and Google), as well as purchased software (Kurzweil, Read/Write, Glean, etc.) will be shared.
Jana Locke, Marshall Public Schools
Session attendees will learn the basics of conducting an assistive technology evaluation and gain access to a template that they can use to help guide their evaluation process. Attendees will also be provided with additional
free resources they may find useful.
Eileen Belton, Missouri Assistive Technology (Moderator)
Panel: MO HealthNet – DSS, Sarah Becker, Program Specialist; CYSHCN – Heather Vanhorn, Program Manager, DMH-DD, UDAT – Shelly Brown; UDAT Lead, Variety the Children’s Charity of Saint Louis – Julie Thompkins,
Senior Health Services Manager and Missouri Assistive Technology – Eileen Belton, Program Coordinator
Sooner or later the discussion around assistive technology turns to how to fund it for an individual. On one hand, funding options have increased; on the other, the process can still resemble a maze. This session featuring both public and private funders to help individuals navigate the process.
Monday, APRIL 8, 2024 (2:00 PM to 3:00 PM – Session Series 4)
Lori Brown & Jami Livingston, Wolfner Talking Book and Braille Library
Wolfner Library is celebrating 100 years in 2024! During this session, the presenter will announce the distribution of the new Zoomax electronic Braille reader. Wolfner’s newest program, The Adult Mail & Make
program will also begin in 2024. Come hear about these new happenings and a brief overview of other programs.
Catlaina Vrana &
Betsy Clifford, PRC-Saltillo
Catlaina Vrana will tell her story growing up autistic and learning how to be a proficient AAC communicator. This presentation will include foundational information about autism spectrum disorder and alternative communication
interspersed with personal experience and humor. How symbol-based AAC is organized, user settings on devices, language surrounding disability, and tips for social interaction with AAC users will be discussed.
Maddie Goswick, Joplin Public Schools
Explore the world of 3D printing tactile learning materials. With an emphasis on examples, this session will cover the basics of 3D printing software, the basics of design, and related resources. Discussion on how 3D printed
materials can increase lesson engagement, be used for teaching Braille Code and Orientation and Mobility, and how they can be incorporated into other areas of the Expanded Core Curriculum will also ensue.
Paul Sanft, Simon Technology Center – PACER Center
In this part one of Video Gaming Accessibility, you’ll learn about adaptive devices, software, and accessibility features specific to gaming with Xbox or PC.
Jason Hartsfield &
Katie Fields, Starkloff Disability Institute
In this session, Starkloff Disability Institute Disability Inclusion Consultants Jason Hartsfield and Katie Fields share the challenges, fears, and disincentives discouraging people with disabilities from requesting workplace
accommodations. Jason and Katie will share lessons and best-practices learned from Starkloff’s work with employers and the Starkloff method for sharing a disability with an employer.
Laura Hoffman-Dieckhaus, Washington University
No longer guided by the direction of the IEP, students with disabilities who embark on post-secondary studies may struggle with self-efficacy. Knowing the assistive technology tools that are readily available to them can
remove stressors and level the playing field as they begin their college career. In this session we will address the AT for educational support, for hearing, and for vision that is commonly found on college campuses to maximize
student independence.
Marcia Davis, Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
Emergencies and disasters can strike quickly and without warning and can force you to be confined to your home or evacuated from your neighborhood. This session will provide practical tips you can take now to help you stay safely in your home during an emergency, as well as sound guidance for planning an evacuation.
Monday, APRIL 8, 2024 (3:30 PM to 4:30 PM – Session Series 5)
Brett Wilhelm, Wilhelm’s Assistive Technology & Anne Murphy, Vancro Inc.
Remote Incident Manager (RIM) is a groundbreaking application for providing tech support and computer training. Whether you are a sighted professional who sometimes needs to interact with computers running screen readers,
a blind AT trainer who needs to have remote access to your client’s computer, or a blind user who does tech support for your family and friends (sighted or blind), RIM has what you want. RIM allows you to access any computer,
regardless of the operating systems or screen readers you and your client are using. Come see it in action! Resources for other free and low-cost remote platforms will also be provided to participants.
Laurel Duever-Collins &
Jessica Nicolaescu, Children’s Therapy Center
AAC evaluations can be intimidating, especially when alternative access methods are in the mix. Come hear how we structure our AAC evaluations at the Children’s Therapy Center in Columbia, Mo, and learn how to assess different
language systems, programs, and access methods outside of the therapy room. We will also learn about insurance requirements for devices and what supports are available to schools and therapists for trialing different systems
and programs.
Terri Jordan, The Color-Coded Chef
The Color-Coded Chef Cooking Kit empowers individuals with intellectual developmental delays to cook confidently and learn essential life skills through a step-by-step, color-coded recipe format. Say goodbye to measurement
confusion and hello to a simplified cooking experience. Join us for a hands-on experience. Make a recipe and try the food.
William Higgins &
Aaron Shepherd, ATvanced
In this session, we will be highlighting the newest, most advanced, smart home devices that can aid with safe, independent living and allow for remote monitoring.
Adam Jennings, e-Nable &
William Janes, University of Missouri – College of Health Sciences
This presentation will illuminate the collaborative efforts between e-NABLE, Makers Making Change, and Missouri Assistive Technology to enhance 3D printing statewide and showcase how these collaborations can lead to the
development of an array of assistive technologies tailored to meet the diverse needs of individuals with disabilities. Participants will leave with a high-level understanding of the opportunities of 3D printing assistive
technology and the roles of various organizations. This session is designed to enhance participants’ understanding and skills, offer replicable models, and share ideas that can be applied.
Lisa Meyer &
Kara Winnike, North Kansas City School District
IDEA requires state and local education agencies to provide Accessible Educational Materials (AEM) in alternative formats and in a timely manner. This session will provide information on how the North Kansas City school
district is piloting a project to increase awareness and enhance discussions about AEM during IEP meetings. Participants will gain knowledge and resources to assist with AEM discussions and implementation in their district.
David Baker, Missouri Assistive Technology &
Angelina Alpert, Institute for Human Development-UMKC
As assistive technology and related services become a central and integral part of the lifespan for individuals with disabilities, the importance of building AT capacity among individuals with disabilities, family members,
providers, educators and others increases. The AT Academy, a joint endeavor of Missouri Assistive Technology and the Institute for Human Development at UMKC, provides a framework to help individuals understand assistive technology
in the context of the Charting the Life Course Planning Pathways to Technology Solutions.
Tuesday, APRIL 9, 2024 (8:00 AM to 9:00 AM – Session Series 6)
Vince Cianfrone, NanoPac, Inc.
This session covers the Freedom Scientific suite of software products for people with low vision or blindness. We’ll look at new features in the 2024 releases of Fusion, JAWS and Zoomtext and some valuable features from
versions past.
Betsy Clifford, PRC-Saltillo
WordPower is more than words on a page. It’s a unique, logical, intuitive, robust AAC learning system available in many configurations and languages. This session will focus on highlighting WordPower’s many powerful features
including reading pages, low tech boards, visual scenes, and the many often underutilized, “real world” features such as texting from the device, saving documents, expressing in emojis and opening apps – valuable everyday
tools. Power Up your day by learning WordPower’s full potential.
Chris Helmick, ARC of St. Louis
How can you control all your smart home devices with just one app? The session will cover Matter Compatible, the new smart home protocol that has been adopted by major companies such as Apple, Google, and Amazon. Learn how
Matter compatibility makes it easier to sync smart home devices, improves compatibility across platforms, and lessens the need for multiple smart home device apps.
Paul Sanft, Simon Technology Center – PACER Center
In this part two of Video Gaming Accessibility, you’ll learn about adaptive devices, software, and accessibility features specific to gaming with PlayStation.
Kara Winnike, North Kansas City School District
Building and sustaining assistive technology services within school districts can be difficult. In this session, participants will learn how the North Kansas City School District is working to overcome barriers and improve
implementation of assistive technology across the district.
Brenda Whitlock, Missouri Assistive Technology &
Beth Jordan, Helen Keller National Center
In this interactive session, a panel of successfully employed individuals who are DeafBlind will answer your questions about the technology they use to get to work, do their job, and excel at what they do. The employment
process and how it is different for individuals who experience combined vision and hearing loss will also be discussed.
Shanda Miller &
Amber Carter, Missouri Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Deaf and hard of hearing people experience different needs from their childhood days in school to their becoming adults, working, and raising their own families, to retirement. This session will discuss common experiences
of deaf and hard of hearing individuals as they navigate accessibility in a world heavily dependent on sound. Opportunities with new technology as well as common misconceptions and barriers will be discussed in regard to
accessibility concerns.
Tuesday, APRIL 9, 2024 (9:30 AM to 10:30 AM – Session Series 7)
Megan Aragon, East Texas Lighthouse
Explore the contrasting experiences of blind and low vision assistive technology (AT) users in Microsoft and Google productivity software. This interactive session examines the implications for screen reader and magnification
software users, offering insights to navigate the transition between these platforms. Discover strategies to enhance the end-user experience, utilize shortcut keys, customize accessibility settings, and leverage specific
features. Delve into screen reader compatibility and considerations for magnification software users. Join us to gain valuable insights and practical knowledge, empowering AT professionals, practitioners, and blind/low vision
individuals for a seamless transition between these widely used platforms.
Brittany Makin, National Seating and Mobility
Proper seating and positioning is essential for optimum respiratory and circulatory function, eating and drinking, accessing assistive technology, et. al. Through illustration via common mobility devices, attendees will receive an overview of best practices for seating and positioning. Information on funding will also be covered.
Briana Conley &
Rush Wilkerson, Paraquad
Maintaining or establishing sex, intimacy, and relationships for people with disabilities is an important part of everyday life. Assistive equipment can have a powerful and positive impact on intimacy, sexual expression,
and maintaining emotional and physical connection between sexual partners. However, people living with a disability have diverse physical and social support needs when it comes to expressing their sexuality. In this presentation,
we will provide examples of assistive devices that may enhance the sexual expression of persons with disabilities, as well as provide educational resources so that individuals – regardless of their disability, orientation,
or relationship status – can freely experiment and embrace their sexuality.
Lainie Strange, State of Missouri – OA/ITSD
Is color contrast a big deal when it comes to accessibility of websites and documents? It sure is! Learn more in this session targeting color and color palettes.
Stephanie Mundinac &
Kristen Wells, Ozark Public Schools
This session will focus on how those working in the educational setting can use assistive technology to help promote engagement with literacy activities when working with students with visual impairments and multiple disabilities.
Scout Merry, Missouri Assistive Technology &
Mary Ross, Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
The role of assistive technology in job seeking, job placement and job retention will be the focus of this session. Join us for this interactive session where we will share some workplace successes (and a few failures) of
AT in the workplace, as well as have some hands-on time with AT devices. In the words of Bill Gates: “Innovation is the most powerful force for change in the world.” If true, why aren’t we all innovators and change makers?
Why haven’t we made the strides needed to see individuals with disabilities fully integrated into the workplace? Let’s discuss small changes we can each make to expand our capacity for helping participants succeed in employment.
From low tech to high tech, we will look across the lifespan, across disability and hear from folks who significantly expanded their opportunities by using assistive technology.
Aaron Milligan, Gray Matters Alliance
This session will identify ways in which enabling technologies can be used in a team approach. Learn how different professional disciplines can come together to create a holistic, whole person approach, creating success
for a person’s goals, wellbeing, safety and independence.
Tuesday, APRIL 9, 2024 (11:00 AM to 12:00 PM – Session Series 8)
Jedidiah Smith, Bellatech Consultants
This session will provide an overview of Dragon Professional Individual software, showing how individuals with mobility impairments can efficiently navigate the computer to be successful in today’s digital environment.
Lisa Myer – North Kansas City School District
In this session, participants will learn about the powerful and transformational accessibility features built into Apple devices. Connections will be made on how Apple’s accessibility features can support student learning
and impact student success.
Jackie Powell, MapHabit, Inc.
This presentation will explore how the MapHabit System is supporting Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) with consistency as they learn important skills that can help them become more independent.
The MapHabit System fosters independence by enabling individuals to create dynamic visual maps. These maps, enriched with personalized photos, videos, text, and audio, facilitate effective task analysis. MapHabit apart is
adaptable — steps can be easily changed, rearranged, or removed as needed, ensuring a tailored learning experience for every individual. It adapts to how individuals learn, and their circle of support can finally be on the
same page on how to best support them. While the individual is the center of the MapHabit System, anyone on the person’s team can be invited to join their Circle of Support. The team can message within the application, and
it is HIPAA compliant. This allows for ongoing team communication, collaboration, and support to the individual. We will give ideas and specific use-cases of how individuals are using the MapHabit System in the real world.
Lainie Strange, State of Missouri – OA/ITSD
Widely used in education, business and for personal use, Microsoft Word is a powerful tool for creating documents, writing with confidence and collaborating in real time. Among its many charms are a bevy of tools to help
individuals create accessible documents. In this session, we’ll drill down, learn about the available features and increase digital accessibility for everyone.
April Burton &
Cathy Fortney, Francis Howell School District
In today’s diverse learning landscape, it is more important than ever to ensure that all learners have access to equitable and inclusive learning opportunities. We will explore how to leverage the power of your learning management
system (LMS) to empower learners and create accessibility best practices. This session will discuss the changing needs of learners and the importance of accessibility in meeting those needs and identify common accessibility
barriers that can be found within LMS platforms. We will also focus on best practices for creating accessible learning content and explore the built-in accessibility features available within Canvas and many other online
tools.
Ellie Stitzer & Ann Marie Gortmaker, University of Missouri
Wondering what the “interactive process” for ADA Title 1 workplace accommodations looks like in real life? Whether an employer, an employee with a disability, a VR instructor or job coach, we’ll consider some helpful questions,
practices, devices and resources to help you arrive at a reasonable and effective accommodation in the workplace. We’ll discuss practical tips on finding the right assistive technology and we’ll encourage participants to
share their creative ways to make it work for employees and employers.
Kevin Hollinger, Francis Howell School District
The B.R.I.T.E Act is Missouri’s new law designed to ensure all Missouri students with a visual impairment receive instruction, consultation and evaluation across the Expanded Core Curriculum (ECC). In this session, we will
review the grassroots, collaborative effort that led to the bill’s passage and highlight key components of the bill regarding evaluations, programming, instruction and consultation for students with visual impairments.
