The Checkout builds capacity in Arkansas schools by developing assistive technology (AT) teams in school districts and/or through regional educational service cooperatives.  esOPTS consultants provide coaching and professional development in the fundamentals of AT and universal design for learning (UDL) using a framework of implementation science. The assistive technology teams built through this project will learn to provide effective assistive technology services to students in their district by becoming better equipped to consider and implement AT tools and strategies to support students with disabilities and by contributing to the training of other education professionals in meeting the needs of diverse learners.  The overall focus of the project is to:

• Build capacity at the district and/or coop level by creating assistive technology teams to meet the AT needs of students
• Assist school teams with identifying quality indicators of assistive technology in schools
• Collaboratively determine areas of team strength and areas in need of improvement
• Build a knowledgeable, supportive network of school professionals who work together to provide appropriate AT devices and services to students

For more information about this project, please contact the Outreach Program at 501-227-3770 or email outreachprogram@eastersealsar.com .

Project Prepare builds capacity in Arkansas schools by working with classroom, building and school district personnel to develop and sustain hospitable environments that are hospitable to the consistent demonstration of research based, high leverage practices for students with significant educational needs.  Through training and coaching, esOPTS consultants follow a framework of implementation science to develop continuous cycles of improvement that can best sustain quality programs and improve educational outcomes for all students, including those with significant needs. Well prepared schools will consistently demonstrate quality indicators in relation to effective:

• administrative systems and supports
• professional development activities
• inclusive practices
• research based learning environments and instructional strategies
• transition planning
• response to family needs and community involvement
• teaming and collaboration
• data collection, progress monitoring and decision making

For more information about this project, please contact the Outreach Program at 501-227-3770 or email outreachprogram@eastersealsar.com .