PBEC Podcast Issue 8 - SpEd Forms Upgrade

In this issue of the podcast, I discuss the major feature changes to the latest SpEd Forms release.
To listen, click here.

Universally Designed Technology in Schools Online Training

With the support of the NEC Foundation, PACER has created a free online training to help teachers, administrators and other professionals, and families learn about and implement universally designed technology (UDT) in K-12 schools. UDT supports a broad range of abilities and learning styles. It can give students with disabilities equal access to the curriculum and help schools meet the educational needs of all students.
For more information, click here.

How to view 'exited' students in SpEd Forms

I've put together a short Quicktime movie demonstrating how to show students in your list who are 'inactive' or 'exited' in SpEd Forms.
You can view it by clicking here.

SpEd Forms Upgrade

I've upgraded the SpEd Forms server. Here's a summary of the changes:

1. Simplified user interface - "Student setup" and "Work with student information" have been combined into a single "Work with students" screen.
2. Improved MARSS entry screen based on DOE MARSS Student Data form ED-01910-10.
3. A new tuition billing calculator in "Student Setup" helps calculate total service hours.
4. "Evaluation Status" is now called "Status". Includes two new student status options; 90 (General Education) and 91 (504 Plan).
5. "Services Summary" has been improved and renamed "Special Education Data Sheet".
6. The "Student Acknowledgement and Tuition Agreement" form has been added.
7. A new client-side JavaScript spell check program has been implemented. Works with DesignMode and much better in all internet browsers.
8. Request access to any student record in the site database by clicking on the "Request Student" button at the top of the student list.
9. Measure and graph progress towards goals and objectives.
10. The full working copy of the student record is now transferred when using the remote transfer between school districts.

The new user guide, reflecting the changes in SpEd Forms, is now available.

Charting the Cs - Update 1

The updated brochure for Charting the Cs is available for download! The update contains clearer information on hotel costs.

We have 10 scholarships available for the registration fee (only). Contact Margaret Knebel if you're interested.

Charting the Cs Brochure

The brochure for Charting the Cs is available for download!

Click here.

How to Find and Fund AT in MN

PACER will be conducting a workshop titled How to Find and Fund Assistive Technology in Minnesota on Tuesday, March 6 from 6:00-9:00pm at Washington Educational Services Building in Brainerd. This is the second in a four part series. If you attend three of the four workshops, you get a free membership in their AT lending library. To register, click here.

I attended the first workshop in the series last night and I highly recommend them!