Funding+Resources

= = =Funding Resources = 

Funding for assistive technology for a student can come from both public and private sources; as long as the student meets the eligibility criteria and provides documentation. It can be a concern because even though the IDEA mandates that assistive technology be provided, it does not provide the funding. While low-tech devices are inexpensive, mid-tech and high-tech devices can be costly. Along with the price of the device itself comes the expenses necessary to insure, maintain, repair, transport and update it. Don’t forget the cost for training the student, family, and staff to use the device in order for it to be effective. School districts are required to provide assistive technology and services to ensure [|FAPE](Free and Appropriate Education).


 * Alternative Funding: **
 * Medicaid: joint federal-state program that provides funding for medical care, rehabilitation, and services to those who are eligible in financial need. Children with disabilities receive Medicaid under “Early Periodic Screening Diagnosis, and Treatment (EPSDT)” Medicaid provides assistive technology if it is medically necessary,
 * Family’s Private Health insurance: When a student is not approved by Medicaid they might be covered by their health insurance as long as the assistive technology is medically necessary. If parents choose to go through their health insurance then they own that device, but the school still needs to provide the services that go along with the device. Schools may also need to reimburse parents for copayments or deductibles.
 * Vocational Rehabilitation Agencies: Another possible source of funding that varies from state to state. This means that assistive technology can be provided for individuals with disabilities that are involved in the transition planning process as long as the AT will increase the students’ chances for employment or postsecondary education.
 * Local Community Support: chamber of commerce, Lions club, Kiwanis club, and Rotary clubs can also provide support of assistive technology purchases. Also, fundraising through school or the community is another option.

Second Edition Assisted Technology in the Classroom by Amy G. Den, Deborah A. Newton, Jerry G. Petroff []