National Assistive Technology Act Data System
Annual Progress Report - Full Report
Texas 2023
General Information
Statewide AT Program (Information to be listed in national State AT Program Directory)
Lead Agency
Implementing Entity
Program Director and Other Contacts
Person Responsible for completing this form if other than Program Director
Certifying Representative
State Financing
| Did your approved state plan for this reporting period include any State Financing? | Yes |
|---|---|
| Did your approved state plan for this reporting period include conducting a Financial Loan Program? | Yes |
| Area of Residence | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Metro RUCC 1-3 |
Non-Metro RUCC 4-9 |
||
| Approved Loan made | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Approved Not made | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Rejected | 01 | 00 | 01 |
| Total | 01 | 00 | 01 |
2. Income of Applicants to Whom Loans Were Made
| Lowest Income: | $0 | Highest Income: | $0 |
|---|
| Sum of Incomes | Loans Made | Average Annual Income |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | 00 | $0 |
| Income Ranges | Total | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $15,000 or Less |
$15,001- $30,000 |
$30,001- $45,000 |
$45,001- $60,000 |
$60,001- $75,000 |
$75,001 or More |
||
| Number of Loans | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Percentage of Loans | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 0% | 100% |
3. Loan Type
| Type of Loan | Number of Loans | Percentage of loans |
|---|---|---|
| Revolving Loans | 00 | 0% |
| Partnership Loans | ||
| Without interest buy-down or loan guarantee | 00 | 0% |
| With interest buy-down only | 00 | 0% |
| With loan guarantee only | 00 | 0% |
| With both interest buy-down and loan guarantee | 00 | 0% |
| Total | 00 | 100% |
| Type of Loan | Number of Loans | Dollar Value of Loans |
|---|---|---|
| Revolving Loans | 00 | $0 |
| Partnership Loans | 00 | $0 |
| Total | 00 | $0 |
4. Interest Rates
| Lowest | 0% |
|---|---|
| Highest | 0% |
| Sum of Interest Rates | Number of Loans Made | Average Interest Rate |
|---|---|---|
| 00 | 00 | 0% |
| Interest Rate | Number of loans |
|---|---|
| 0.0% to 2.0% | 00 |
| 2.1% to 4.0% | 00 |
| 4.1% to 6.0% | 00 |
| 6.1% to 8.0% | 00 |
| 8.1% - 10.0% | 00 |
| 10.1%-12.0% | 00 |
| 12.1%-14.0% | 00 |
| 14.1% + | 00 |
| Total | 00 |
5. Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Financed
| Type of AT | Number of Devices Financed | Dollar Value of Loans |
|---|---|---|
| Vision | 00 | $0 |
| Hearing | 00 | $0 |
| Speech communication | 00 | $0 |
| Learning, cognition, and developmental | 00 | $0 |
| Mobility, seating and positioning | 00 | $0 |
| Daily living | 00 | $0 |
| Environmental adaptations | 00 | $0 |
| Vehicle modification and transportation | 00 | $0 |
| Computers and related | 00 | $0 |
| Recreation, sports, and leisure | 00 | $0 |
| Total | 00 | $0 |
6. Defaults
| Number Loans in default | 00 |
|---|---|
| Net loss for loans in default | $0 |
B. State Financing Activities that provide consumers with resources and services that result in the acquisition of AT devices and services
1. Overview of Activities Performed
| How many other state financing activities that provide consumers with access to funds for the purchase of AT devices and services were included in your approved state plan? | 0 |
|---|
C. State Financing Activities that Allow Consumers to Obtain AT at Reduced Cost
1. Overview of Activities Performed
| How many state financing activities that allow consumers to obtain AT at a reduced cost were included in your approved state plan? | 1 |
|---|
Activity 1
| How would you describe this state financing activity? | AT Fabrication or AT Maker Program |
|---|
2. Geographic Distribution and Number of Individuals Served
| County of Residence | Individuals Served |
|---|---|
| A. Metro (RUCC 1-3) | 128 |
| B. Non-Metro (RUCC 4-9) | 30 |
| C. Total Served | 158 |
| Performance Measure | |
|---|---|
| D. Excluded from Performance Measure | 0 |
| E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures | 158 |
If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance measure:
3. Types and Dollar Amounts of AT Funded
| Type of AT Device / Service | Number Provided | Total Estimated Current Retail Purchase Price | Total Price for Which Devices Were Sold | Savings to Consumers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vision | 0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Hearing | 0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Speech communication | 44 | $300 | $20 | $280 |
| Learning, cognition, and developmental | 0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Mobility, seating and positioning | 0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Daily living | 94 | $20 | $0 | $20 |
| Environmental adaptations | 0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Vehicle modification and transportation | 0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Computers and related | 0 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Recreation, sports, and leisure | 20 | $10 | $0 | $10 |
| Total | 158 | $330 | $20 | $310 |
D. Anecdote
TTAP provided sample 3D printed items to our 22 Demo Centers. This prompted interest in 3D printing broadly, and for the sample items more narrowly. We have created and are inviting membership to a network of "makers and printers" across Texas with the clever name of TAMALES (Texas A.t. Makers ALiancE- see graphic). The intention is that the network will provide local support and resources for people to get items 3D printed in their geographic areas. We plan to offer training on disability specific 3D printed tools to this group. We have a vetted list of .stl files and resources here: https://padlet.com/STPaige/ttap-and-3d-printing-jajt8w04674ztoq7.
TTAP has supported Volkswitch (https://volksswitch.org/index.php/volks-devices/bliss-tactile-symbols/) in perfecting 3D printed Bliss Core Vocabulary Tactile Symbols. We have printed multiple sets (8 full core vocabulary sets, and 17 sample sets of 5 core vocabulary words) for Education Service Centers, School Districts, and Demo Centers. Consumers with visual and oral communication challenges have been able to use these to begin to learn to communicate. Additionally, we have been able to provide several training sessions and presentations at conferences and via webinar on these tools.
E. Performance Measures
| Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
| 1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. | 19 | 00 | 00 | 19 |
| 2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 79 | 00 | 00 | 79 |
| 3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 4. Subtotal | 98 | 00 | 00 | 98 |
| 5. None of the above | 60 | 00 | 00 | 60 |
| 6. Subtotal | 158 | 00 | 00 | 158 |
| 7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 8. Total | 158 | 00 | 00 | 158 |
| 9. Performance on this measure | 62.03% | NaN% | NaN% | |
F. Customer Satisfaction
| Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied | 158 | 100% |
| Satisfied | 00 | 0% |
| Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
| Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
| Nonrespondent | 00 | 0% |
| Total Surveyed | 158 | |
| Response rate % | 100% |
G. Notes:
No approved loans were mane during this FY. TTAP continues to seek a viable financial partner for a loan program. Either the financial partner is not willing to sign the University contract, or the University is not willing to sign the financial partner's contract. We are currently pursuing 2 new possibilities; a regional Texas bank (Frost), and 501(c)(3) partners again. We had one loan applicant that did not qualify. We will be working on outreach activities to increase participation. When consumers discover it is a loan rather than a direct funding source, they often are not interested in pursuing the option. We have engaged in financial wellness training and learning opportunities for consumers.
Reutilization
A. Number of Recipients of Reused Devices
| Activity | Number of Individuals Receiving a Device from Activity |
|---|---|
| A. Device Exchange | 00 |
| B. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassign and/or Open Ended Loan | 2,049 |
| C. Total | 2,049 |
| Performance Measure | |
|---|---|
| D. Excluded from Performance Measure because AT is provided to or on behalf of an entity that has an obligation to provide the AT such as schools under IDEA or VR agencies/clients. | 00 |
| E. Number of Individuals Included in Performance Measures | 2,049 |
If a number is reported in D you must provide a description of the reason the individuals are excluded from the performance
N/A
B. Device Exchange Activities
| Type of AT Device | Number of Devices Exchanged | Total Estimated Current Purchase Price | Total Price for Which Device(s) Were Exchanged | Savings to Consumers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vision | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Hearing | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Speech Communication | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Daily Living | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Environmental Adaptations | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Vehicle Modification & Transportation | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Computers and Related | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Total | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
C. Device Refurbish/Repair - Reassignment and/or Open Ended Loan Activities
| Type of AT Device | Number of Devices Reassigned/Refurbished and Repaired | Total Estimated Current Purchase Price | Total Price for Which Device(s) Were Sold | Savings to Consumers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vision | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Hearing | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Speech Communication | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 3,288 | $430,391 | $0 | $430,391 |
| Daily Living | 2,004 | $226,720 | $0 | $226,720 |
| Environmental Adaptations | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Vehicle Modification & Transportation | 01 | $1,014 | $0 | $1,014 |
| Computers and Related | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 00 | $0 | $0 | $0 |
| Total | 5,293 | $658,125 | $0 | $658,125 |
D. Anecdote
Narrative 1: AJ a resilient soul in San Antonio facing a rare disability that gradually limited her to the point of being immobile. Eager to regain independence, and faced with challenges receiving equipment through her insurance, A turned to ProjectMEND, a local organization specializing in durable medical equipment reuse. ProjectMEND swiftly identified a power chair that would be a perfect fit for her needs. Thanks to donors and ProjectMEND's expertise, A received her power chair, opening a world of exploration and connection. A is able to confidently navigate her surroundings, and transcending the limitations of her disability. Her story, a testament to resilience and community support, showed transformative power of ProjectMEND's commitment to restoring independence. Narrative 2: JB found herself facing an uphill battle after a devastating car accident. Without insurance and unable to afford the necessary durable medical equipment to aid her recovery, J discovered ProjectMEND, a beacon of hope for those facing financial barriers to essential medical resources. She reached out the team at ProjectMEND, sharing the challenges she faced in the aftermath of the accident. ProjectMEND swiftly mobilized their resources. Understanding the crucial role durable medical equipment played in J's recovery, they worked diligently to secure the necessary devices without adding a financial burden. J received the vital equipment she needed to navigate her rehabilitation journey. A customized wheelchair and other essential tools became the stepping stones to her recovery, allowing J to regain a sense of independence and mobility. J's story reflects the transformative impact of ProjectMEND in the lives of those who find themselves in unforeseen and challenging circumstances.
E. Performance Measures
| Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
| 1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. | 00 | 00 | 2,049 | 2,049 |
| 2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 4. Subtotal | 00 | 00 | 2,049 | 2,049 |
| 5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 6. Subtotal | 00 | 00 | 2,049 | 2,049 |
| 7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 8. Total | 00 | 00 | 2,049 | 2,049 |
| 9. Performance on this measure | NaN% | NaN% | 100% | |
F. Customer Satisfaction
| Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied | 00 | 0% |
| Satisfied | 1,907 | 93.07% |
| Satisfied somewhat | 00 | 0% |
| Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
| Nonrespondent | 142 | 6.93% |
| Total Surveyed | 2,049 | |
| Response rate % | 93.07% |
G. Notes:
Two narratives are provided. They are each a bit different and reflect the work ProjectMend does.
Device Loan
A. Short-Term Device Loans by Type of Purpose
| Primary Purpose of Short-Term Device Loan | Number |
|---|---|
| Assist in decision-making (device trial or evaluation) | 194 |
| Serve as loaner during service repair or while waiting for funding | 08 |
| Provide an accommodation on a short-term basis for a time-limited event/situation | 05 |
| Conduct training, self-education or other professional development activity | 05 |
| Total | 212 |
B. Short-Term Device Loan by Type of Borrower
| Type of Individual or Entity | Number of Device Borrowers | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Desicion-making | All other Purposes | Total | |
| Individuals with Disabilities | 40 | 01 | 41 |
| Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives | 30 | 09 | 39 |
| Representative of Education | 31 | 02 | 33 |
| Representative of Employment | 02 | 00 | 02 |
| Representatives of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 88 | 06 | 94 |
| Representatives of Community Living | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Representatives of Technology | 03 | 00 | 03 |
| Total | 194 | 18 | 212 |
C. Length of Short-Term Device Loans
| Length of Short-Term Device Loan in Days | 35 |
|---|
D. Types of Devices Loaned
| Type of AT Device | Number of Devices | ||
|---|---|---|---|
| Desicion-making | All other Purposes | Total | |
| Vision | 05 | 00 | 05 |
| Hearing | 07 | 00 | 07 |
| Speech Communication | 172 | 30 | 202 |
| Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 22 | 06 | 28 |
| Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 04 | 01 | 05 |
| Daily Living | 03 | 02 | 05 |
| Environmental Adaptations | 37 | 26 | 63 |
| Vehicle Modification and Transportation | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Computers and Related | 18 | 06 | 24 |
| Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 02 | 00 | 02 |
| Total | 270 | 71 | 341 |
E. Anecdote
Hello my name is EF. I am 17 years old. I live in Texas. I have cerebral palsy. I am unable to speak so I use every day my Accent 1400 with switches. I use the Accent 1400 to complete my homework in school, and to communicate with the world. The Accent makes my daily life possible! Last month, my Accent 1400 quit working. My dad and I were worried because I need the Accent for my daily life activities. My dad called the Accent Company, and asked for a loaner. Miss T, the lady from the company didn’t have one to loan. She told my dad to contact the AT program in Texas (TTAP). My dad contacted the AT program. He spoke with a lady called A. A lent me an Accent. A lent me an Accent until the Accent Company was able to fix mine. Thank you for lending me the Accent! I was so happy I can continue with my life!. It so hard not being able to communicate with anyone!
F. Access Performance Measures
| Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
| Decided that AT device/service will meet needs | 115 | 10 | 43 | 168 |
| Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Subtotal | 115 | 10 | 43 | 168 |
| Have not made a decision | 02 | 00 | 00 | 02 |
| Subtotal | 117 | 10 | 43 | 170 |
| Nonrespondent | 13 | 02 | 09 | 24 |
| Total | 130 | 12 | 52 | 194 |
| Performance on this measure | 98.29% | 100% | 100% | |
G. Acquisition Performance Measures
| Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
| 1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. | 09 | 00 | 06 | 15 |
| 2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 01 | 00 | 01 | 02 |
| 3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 4. Subtotal | 10 | 00 | 07 | 17 |
| 5. None of the above | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 6. Subtotal | 10 | 00 | 07 | 17 |
| 7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 01 | 00 | 01 |
| 8. Total | 10 | 01 | 07 | 18 |
| 9. Performance on this measure | 100% | 0% | 100% | |
H. Customer Satisfaction
| Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied | 175 | 82.55% |
| Satisfied | 11 | 5.19% |
| Satisfied somewhat | 01 | 0.47% |
| Not at all satisfied | 00 | 0% |
| Nonrespondent | 25 | 11.79% |
| Total Surveyed | 212 | |
| Response rate % | 88.21% |
I. Notes:
The narrative was submitted by a consumer. TTAP chose not to edit the submission for grammar and structure because it genuinely reflects many consumer's experience with the device loan library, and the fact that our most popular items checked out are the very costly AAC devices an apps.
Device Demonstration
A. Number of Device Demonstrations by Device Type
| Type of AT Device / Service | Number of Demonstrations of AT Devices / Services |
|---|---|
| Vision | 24 |
| Hearing | 05 |
| Speech Communication | 53 |
| Learning, Cognition and Developmental | 05 |
| Mobility, Seating and Positioning | 00 |
| Daily Living | 13 |
| Environmental Adaptations | 01 |
| Vehicle Modification and Transportation | 00 |
| Computers and Related | 23 |
| Recreation, Sports and Leisure | 02 |
| Total # of Device Demonstrations | 126 |
B. Types of Participants
| Type of Participant | Decision-Makers | Other Participants | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individuals with Disabilities | 112 | 00 | 112 |
| Family Members, Guardians, and Authorized Representatives | 05 | 35 | 40 |
| Representatives of Education | 04 | 32 | 36 |
| Representatives of Employment | 03 | 17 | 20 |
| Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation | 00 | 03 | 03 |
| Representative of Community Living | 02 | 17 | 19 |
| Representative of Technology | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| Total | 126 | 104 | 230 |
C. Number of Referrals
| Type of Entity | Number of Referrals |
|---|---|
| Funding Source (non-AT program) | 28 |
| Service Provider | 39 |
| Vendor | 12 |
| Repair Service | 00 |
| Others | 163 |
| Total | 242 |
D. Anecdote
M visited the Demonstration Center at the TTAP Austin office. She is a middle-aged woman that had an acquired visual impairment and was working with Texas Workforce and the Criss Cole Center to develop workforce skills. She needed to explore alternative computer keyboard options, and the iPhone built in support tools for visual impairment. During the visit, M tried several alternative keyboards with low vision and tactile supports. She checked out two of them from our device loan closet to try in her work environment, and ultimately selected the Humanware Mini Bluetooth Keyboard. Texas Workforce was able to purchase this tool for her, so she was able to continue being employed. Additionally, TTAP was able to provide some hands-on, in-the-moment training so she knew how to access accessiblity features within her iPhone.
E. Performance Measures
| Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
| Decided that AT device/service will meet needs | 24 | 21 | 55 | 100 |
| Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 00 | 01 | 00 | 01 |
| Subtotal | 24 | 22 | 55 | 101 |
| Have not made a decision | 03 | 00 | 14 | 17 |
| Subtotal | 27 | 22 | 69 | 118 |
| Nonrespondent | 02 | 00 | 06 | 08 |
| Total | 29 | 22 | 75 | 126 |
| Performance on this measure | 82.76% | 100% | 73.33% | |
F. Customer Satisfaction
| Customer Rating of Services | Number of Customers | Percent |
|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied | 128 | 55.65% |
| Satisfied | 75 | 32.61% |
| Satisfied somewhat | 15 | 6.52% |
| Not at all satisfied | 01 | 0.43% |
| Nonrespondent | 11 | 4.78% |
| Total | 230 | |
| Response rate % | 95.22% |
G. Notes:
Overall Performance Measures
Overall Acquisition Performance Measure
| Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
| 1. Could only afford the AT through the AT program. | 28 | 00 | 2,055 | 2,083 |
| 2. AT was only available through the AT program. | 80 | 00 | 01 | 81 |
| 3. AT was available through other programs, but the system was too complex or the wait time too long. | 00 | 00 | 00 | 00 |
| 4. Subtotal | 108 | 00 | 2,056 | 2,164 |
| 5. None of the above | 60 | 00 | 00 | 60 |
| 6. Subtotal | 168 | 00 | 2,056 | 2,224 |
| 7. Nonrespondent | 00 | 01 | 00 | 01 |
| 8. Total | 168 | 01 | 2,056 | 2,225 |
| 9. Performance on this measure | 64.29% | 0% | 100% | 97.26% |
| ACL Performance Measure | 85% | |||
| Met/Not Met | Met | |||
Overall Access Performance Measure
| Response | Primary Purpose for Which AT is Needed | Total | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Education | Employment | Community Living | ||
| Decided that AT device/service will meet needs | 139 | 31 | 98 | 268 |
| Decided that an AT device/ service will not meet needs | 00 | 01 | 00 | 01 |
| Subtotal | 139 | 32 | 98 | 269 |
| Have not made a decision | 05 | 00 | 14 | 19 |
| Subtotal | 144 | 32 | 112 | 288 |
| Nonrespondent | 15 | 02 | 15 | 32 |
| Total | 159 | 34 | 127 | 320 |
| Performance on this measure | 95.21% | 100% | 83.05% | 90.88% |
| ACL Performance Measure | 90% | |||
| Met/Not Met | Met | |||
Overall Satisfaction Rating
| Customer Rating of Services | Percent | ACL Target | Met/Not Met |
|---|---|---|---|
| Highly satisfied and satisfied | 99.31% | 95% | Met |
| Response Rate | 93.28% | 90% | Met |
Training
A. Training Participants: Number and Types of Participants; Geographical Distribution
| Type of Participant | Number |
|---|---|
| Individuals with Disabilities | 300 |
| Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives | 12 |
| Representatives of Education | 88 |
| Representatives of Employment | 15 |
| Rep Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 101 |
| Representatives of Community Living | 61 |
| Representatives of Technology | 42 |
| Unable to Categorize | 146 |
| TOTAL | 765 |
| Metro | Non Metro | Unknown | TOTAL |
|---|---|---|---|
| 495 | 240 | 30 | 765 |
B. Training Topics
| Primary Topic of Training | Participants |
|---|---|
| AT Products/Services | 315 |
| AT Funding/Policy/ Practice | 00 |
| Combination of any/all of the above | 412 |
| Information Technology/Telecommunication Access | 06 |
| Transition | 32 |
| Total | 765 |
C. Description of Training Activities
Describe innovative one high-impact assistance training activity conducted during the reporting period:
TTAP continues to meet monthly with the Texas Workforce Rehabilitation Services AT Specialists to train them on tools in their AT kits. Specifically, this year focused on iPad tools and updates, computer access, and AAC systems.
Briefly describe one training activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:
TTAP provided education and training sessions on Considerations for AT and Transition from K12 to Post Secondary and Employment in multiple venues throughout the year including: the Texas Parent to Parent, the ARC of Texas, Downs Syndrome Guide of Dallas, and the Greater Houston Disability Chamber of Commerce.
Briefly describe one training activity related to Information and Communication Technology accessibility:
TTAP provided training to employees of the city of Dallas who have disabilties and their managers through the Dallas public library on accessibility tools built into phones, tablets and laptops; and what is a "reasonable accommodation" in the work setting.
D. IT/Telecommunications Training Performance Measure
| Outcome/Result From IT/Telecommunications Training Received | Number |
|---|---|
| IT and Telecommunications Procurement or Dev Policies | 04 |
| Training or Technical Assistance will be developed or implemented | 01 |
| No known outcome at this time | 01 |
| Nonrespondent | 00 |
| Total | 06 |
| Performance Measure Percentage | 83.3% |
| ACL Target Percentage | 70% |
| Met/Not Met | Met |
E. Notes:
Technical Assistance
A. Frequency and Nature of Technical Assistance
| Education | 68% |
|---|---|
| Employment | 21% |
| Health, Allied Health, Rehabilitation | 11% |
| Community Living | 00% |
| Technology (IT, Telecom, AT) | 00% |
| Total | 100% |
B. Description of Technical Assistance
Describe Innovative one high-impact assistance activity that is not related to transition:
TTAP worked with a school district in Texas to develop skills in 3D printing- specifically keyguards for AAC devices. This involved initially providing them with 3D printed keyguards, then teaching them how to utilize open source CAD programs and supporting them in the acquisition of their own 3D printer via a grant. Now they are able to create their own for students in their school district.
Breifly describe one technical assistance activity related to transition conducted during the reporting period:
The Texas Technology Access Program’s Education Coordinator led the Region 6 Education Service Center (located in Huntsville, Texas) special education multidisciplinary team and their Assistive Technology (AT) Cohorts in a team training series targeting 4 rural districts designed to build district capacity utilizing project based and learning over time strategies to learn about and differentiate between AT consideration, assessment, implementation, and evaluation of effectiveness, and transition AT devices an services within and post k12; explore AT equipment and tools; complete self and team evaluations for the purpose of setting short and long term goals for systemic improvement and to build relationships with other districts promoting shared ideas and networking.
C. Notes:
Public Awareness
Public Awareness Activities
Public Awareness Narratives
Describe in detail at least one and no more than two innovative or high-impact public awareness activities conducted during this reporting period. Highlight the content/focus of the awareness information shared, the mechanism used to disseminate or communicate the awareness information, the numbers and/or types of individuals reached, and positive outcomes resulting from the activity. If quantative numbers are available regarding the reach of the activity, please provide those: however, quantative data is not required.
1. TTAP supported two Abilities Expos, one in Dallas in December 2022 and one in Houston in August 2023. Approximately 7,000 attended the Dallas event and 10,000 attended the Houston event. They were attended by professionals, people with disabilties and their caregivers. TTAP demonstrated a variety of AT tools across all disability types. Participants particularly enjoyed a 3D printer to demonstrate printing AAC symbols and keyguards, and accessible video gaming equipment. We were visited by several previous years' attendees who had since sought our services and anecdotally reported satisfaction with their experiences.
2. TTAP exhibited and presented at the Texas Statewide Conference on Education of the Deaf (SWCED). The conference is attended by K12 professionals and some parents. There were about 1500 participants at this event. The sessions we presented included AAC for students who are multiply impaired, AT Overview and how to access TTAP services, and how to use music to focus and concentrate.
Information And Assistance
| Types of Recipients | AT Device/ Service |
AT Funding | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individuals with Disabilities | 175 | 55 | 230 |
| Family Members, Guardians and Authorized Representatives | 66 | 25 | 91 |
| Representative of Education | 66 | 01 | 67 |
| Representative of Employment | 04 | 00 | 04 |
| Representative of Health, Allied Health, and Rehabilitation | 20 | 05 | 25 |
| Representative of Community Living | 07 | 01 | 08 |
| Representative of Technology | 06 | 00 | 06 |
| Unable to Categorize | 01 | 01 | 02 |
| Total | 345 | 88 | 433 |
Referral Types:
TTAP attended several profession specific regional or state conferences this year, such and the Texas Physical Therapy Conference and the Texas Occupational Therapy Conference. We tailored items displayed in the booth to the type of professional. We noted increased referrals from these constituents after exhibiting.
Referral Sources:
Many different entities refer to TTAP including Education Service Centers, School Districts, Rehab facilities and hospitals, 211, private practitioners, vendors, Centers for Independent Living, ADRCs/AAAs, and our 22 Demo Centers. The bulk of our supports go to public school personnel and families of K12 students (35-40%), followed by 25-30% from the private/medical sector, then state agencies and other community living supports at 20%-25%, and the remainder mostly vendors and funding entities.
Notes:
An additional anecdote: TTAP provided technical assistance to help a young man with a terminal brainstem tumor develop a low-tech letter/picture augmentative communication system that he accessed via laser pointer. The family and the young man were frustrated because he could not communicate. Resources were provided. This is what a family friend shared later: “I wanted to thank you again for all the resources you sent to J- through me. We were able to implement quite a few of the letter/picture boards and he used the laser pointer like a boss! J- died last Monday after two years of cognitive and motor decline from a brainstem tumor. You played an integral part in the quality of the last 6 weeks of his life, and I wanted you to know that. He was able to keep communicating with his beloveds until the moment he died. Thank you for your kind, complete, and enthusiastic response to my inquiry. You made SUCH a difference to that family. “
Coordination/Collaboration and State Improvement Outcomes
Overview of Coordination/Collaboration Activities
| Coordination/Collaboration activities are not required. You may report up to two MAJOR coordination/collaboration activities for this reporting period. How many will you be reporting? | 1 |
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A. Coordination/Collaboration
1. As concisely as possible, describe the partnership initiative. What activities/services were provided? Who are the major collaborating organizations and what is their role? Who is served/benefited? What funding was used to implement the initiative?
TTAP has initiated a pilot program to support accessible fishing at one of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) fisheries. We have established an MOU, ordered equipment, begun providing training, and participated in a fishing event for people with disabilties where the equipment was used. The equipment will be housed at the fishery and they will check it out to consumers who visit and need to use the adaptive equipment. TTAP hopes to use data collected from this pilot to support a grant request to provide additional equipment at other TPWD locations, fisheries, and parks.
2. As concisely as possible, describe the measurable results of the initiative and any lessons learned. How did access to AT change as a result of the coordination/collaboration/partnership? How did awareness of AT change as a result of the partnership? How did the reach of the state AT program change as a result of the partnership? What made the partnership successful? What would you change or wish you had done differently? Provided funding/resources are available, will the initiative continue or is this a one-time event? What advice would you give for replication of the initiative? Please include URL for initiative if available.
We will be able to measure the number of items checked out and used at the fishery. The program is just now being formalized, so there is no data yet beyond the three consumes who were able to use the tools at the fishing event we attended. The attendees could not have participated without the adapted tools. Additionally, we were able to train the fishery staff on how to set up the tools and engage with people with disabilties. Developing the relationship with TPWD was key to initiating this project. They actually have an accessibility staff specialist that we were able to engage. TTAP foresees continued partnerships with TPWD beyond the accessible fishing pilot.
3. What focus areas(s) were addressed by the initiative?
Education; Community Participation and Integration; Recreation / Leisure; Aging; Veterans;
4. What AT Act authorized activity(s) were addressed?
Device Loan; Demonstration; Public Awareness;
Overview of State Improvement Activities
| State improvement outcomes are not required. You may report up to two MAJOR state improvement outcomes for this reporting period. How many will you be reporting? | 01 |
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B. State Improvements
1. In one or two sentences, describe the outcome. Be as specific as possible about exactly what changed during this reporting period as a result of the AT program's initiative.
TTAP was asked to sit on the Texas Broadband Access Committee as an accessibility specialist. The purpose of the committee is multifaceted, but in summary, the purpose is to develop plans to spend the massive infrastructure funding Texas is receiving (over 33 Billion) from the Infrastructure and Investment and Jobs Act. There is also additional 500 million funding via the American Rescue Plan, and the Capital Projects Fund. TTAP specifically supports the Bringing Online Opportunities to Texas (BOOT) program. TTAP participates in periodic virtual meetings, dissemination of information, feedback on the Plan and materials that are created, and in some face-to-face events such as public listening sessions.
2. In one or two sentences, describe the written policies, practices, and procedures that have been developed and implemented as a result of the AT program's initiative. Include information about how to obtain the full documents, such as a Web site address or e-mail address of a contact person, but do not include the full documents here. (If there are no written polices, practices and procedures, explain why.)
This is a multi-year ongoing obligation. Currently, the Plan is out for public comment. Details of this project can be found broadly here https://comptroller.texas.gov/programs/broadband/, and more specifically here https://comptroller.texas.gov/programs/broadband/funding/#bead, https://comptroller.texas.gov/programs/broadband/funding/bead/, and https://comptroller.texas.gov/programs/broadband/funding/digital-opportunity/. Public comments can be submitted until January 5, 2024 https://infinite-peak-70034.herokuapp.com/.
3. What was the primary area of impact for this state improvement outcome?
Technology (ICT accessibility and AT
Additional And Leveraged Funds
A. Leveraged Funding for State Plan Activities
| Fund Source | Amount | Use of Funds | Data Reported |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public/State Agency | $10,000 | Technical Assistance | False |
| Public/State Agency | $15,000 | Device Loan | True |
| Federal | $37,334 | Training | True |
| Amount: $62,334 |
For any leveraged funding reported above for which data could not be reported, please describe the extenuating circumstances that precluded data from being reported and efforts to remediate the situation in future reporting periods.
TTAP contracted with Region 20 Education Service Center for $10,000 to review and edit AT information in a resource document intended for their constituents. There is no direct data to report for this, but it did leverage state funds that could be added to a local expenditure account to support TTAP activities. Dallas Metrocare (an ADRC/AAA) collaborated with TTAP to provide $15,000 smart technology devices/FTE/travel/shipping/indirect costs for our loan closet. TTAP continues to expend the AT Public Health grant received from ACL.
B. Public Health Workforce Grant Award |
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All Section 4 AT Act grantees were awarded $80,000.00 in supplimental Public Health Workforce grant funding to increase the full-time equivalent (FTE) of staff withing the disability and aging network for public health professionals. Please document the status of these funds below. |
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C. Describe any unique issues with your data in this section (e.g., the reason why you were unable to report the number of individuals served with additional or leveraged funds).
For the public health position, some funds had been expended on salary/equipment/travel prior to October 1, 2022 (24,661). For FY 2023, 37,334 has been expended. This makes the total expended 61,995, and 18,005 remaining, predominantly for salary though August 2024 when the position will expire.
Center for Assistive Technology Act Data Assistance . Saved: Tue Feb 13 2024 14:15:15 GMT-0600 (Central Standard Time)