School-Based Assessment

Any student with a disability can improve their learning through the use of appropriate Assistive Technology (AT). For an AT assessment a RESNA approved Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) will visit with school staff and the student’s family, and conduct an observation and trial of possible AT solutions.

The ATP will then submit a report listing the student’s strengths and weaknesses, the current goals the student has, any barriers to the student’s progress towards those goals and AT recommendations that will help the student overcome the current barriers and continue to make good progress on their goals.

Focus is always on the student and his/her needs. Often times there will be several options suggested for that student and the school can borrow the equipment, software, etc. from the ICAT loaning library for trial with that student efore any purchase is made. These assessments are paid for through a contract with the Idaho State Department of Education and are at no cost to the school or the student’s family.

To apply for a school-based assessment, visit www.idahoat.org or call 1-800-432-8324.

Job-Based Assessment

Any adult with a disability or functional limitation is eligible for an Assistive Technology (AT) assessment in the area of computer access. Various adapted computer keyboards, mice, screen enlargement, screen reading, speech recognition, etc. are explored depending on the individual’s area of need. These assessments are conducted by a RESNA approved Assistive Technology Professional (ATP) and cost sixty-three dollars ($63.00) an hour. Training on the use of the AT recommended can be done at either our location or at the jobsite.

AgrAbility Assessment

Any farmer, rancher, other agricultural worker, or their family member is eligible for an assessment. Our AgrAbility professionals come to the work-site and conduct assessments to analyze job tasks looking for ways to make those tasks easier or less painful, or in some cases, even possible to do. They can then either recommend modifications of existing equipment, the purchase of new equipment or farm machinery, and/or recommend appropriate assistive technology to make your work possible. They also help you determine if the current type of agricultural production should be modified or changed – such as changing from a row crop operation to an orchard operation. Farming, dairy operations, forestry, you name it, we can help make it possible for you to do what you love to do.

Home Modification Assessment

Research indicates that it is at least ten times more expensive to move a person with a disability into an institution than it is to modify the home for appropriate access and safety. 80% of home access modifications can be completed for $5,000 or less. Our AT professionals can perform a home assessment to determine what kinds of modifications would be necessary to keep a disabled person in the home environment with as much independence and privacy as possible. The Idaho Assistive Technology Project has been developing a list of qualified contractors who are experienced in doing the kind of modifications many homes need for universal access to persons with a disability. In the near future, Idahoans may qualify under a special waiver for Medicaid to pay for home modifications. For the time being, home modification is still the responsibility of the homeowner.