Nebraska State Plan Part I: Attachments

OMB Control Number: 1820-0664; Expiration Date: 12-31-2005

Attachment 1: Basic Information

Name of Lead Agency: Nebraska Department of Education
Name of Applicable Division and/or Subdivision of Lead Agency: Nebraska Assistive Technology Partnership
Address of Lead Agency: 301 Centennial Mall South, P.O. Box 94987, Lincoln, NE 68509Name and Title of Certifying Representative for Lead Agency: Douglas D. Christensen, Ph.D., Commissioner of Education
Address for Certifying Representative: Nebraska Department of Education, 301 Centennial Mall South, Lincoln, NE 68509
Telephone for Certifying Representative: 402.471.5020
E-mail for Certifying Representative: doug_ch@nde.state.ne.usName and Title of Program Director: Mark Schultz, Director
Address for Program Director: Nebraska Assistive Technology Partnership, 5143 South 48th Street, Suite C, Lincoln, NE 68516-2204
Telephone for Program Director: 402.471.0734
E-mail for Program Director: mark.schultz@atp.ne.gov
Name and Title of Program Contact (if different from Program Director):
Name of Implementing Entity: Nebraska Assistive Technology Partnership
Address of Implementing Entity: 5143 South 48th Street, Suite C, Lincoln, NE 68516-2204

Attachment 2: Lead Agency and Implementing Entity

2.1 Identification and Description of the Lead Agency - Identify and describe the Lead Agency referred to in section 4(c)(1)(A) of the AT Act.

2.1A Identification and Description of Lead Agency if an Implementing Entity is not Designated
Since 1989, as designated by the Governor, the Nebraska Department of Education has served as the lead agency for Nebraska's Assistive Technology Act Program. The Assistive Technology Partnership (ATP), administratively located within Vocational Rehabilitation in the Department of Education, is directly responsible for carrying out the goals and activities of the program to increase awareness about assistive technology and to increase the likelihood that individuals are able to get and use assistive technology. The program provides information about assistive technology (what is available, how much it costs, where to get it, and resources that can help pay for it) by providing a toll free phone number, an accessible website, accessible publications, and staff located in four offices at locations across the state.
ATP also provides program administration and support for various assistive technology funding sources. The following agencies have contracted with ATP for program administration and support (further descriptions of the administration and support provided can be found in Attachments 5 and 8 as well as Attachment 9):

• Nebraska Health and Human Services System (includes the Medicaid Home and Community Based Waiver, Medically Handicapped Children's Program, Disabled Children's Program, Disabled Persons and Family Support Program, Economic Assistance, Subsidized Adoption, Child Protective Services, and Adult Protective Services)
• Nebraska Vocational Rehabilitation (Title I and Part B Programs)
• Nebraska Veterans Affairs, Vocational Rehabilitation
• Nebraska Department of Education, Special Populations
• Nebraska Housing Developers Association

During the next three years of the State Plan, ATP will continue to provide support across areas of education, employment, health, and housing to create a “One Stop” service for persons with disabilities of all ages and others who need assistance in finding out about assistive technology and home modification solutions, as well as resources that can help pay for them. During the next three years, ATP's major initiative will be working with funding sources in Nebraska (including, but not limited to, the Department of Health and Human Services, Vocational Rehabilitation, the Department of Education, Veterans Affairs, and the Department of Economic Development) to provide program administration and support through technical and financial assistance, to help consumers find and acquire assistive technology. The major initiative under the State Finance Activity essentially creates a One Stop for assistive technology technical assistance and financing in Nebraska.
ATP will continue to employ specialized staff located at offices in eastern, central, and western Nebraska, who travel to individuals' homes, schools, and workplaces to help in identifying assistive technology solutions. The majority of these “Technology Specialists” will have educational backgrounds and experiences in occupational therapy, rehabilitation engineering, computer technology, or architecture. Their support will include helping to determine appropriate and cost-effective assistive technology solutions, obtaining quotes for the cost of recommended solutions, authorization of funding to pay for the device or service, and monitoring the work to make sure it is satisfactorily completed.
Additional specialized staff will be employed to help track funding resources and work together to locate and coordinate the use of available financial assistance through a variety of public and private sources. ATP will continue to use an intake form called the Services and Devices Request Form that is shared by more than 20 different Nebraska funding sources. Individuals with disabilities and their families complete the Services and Device Request Form and the information is then used to determine eligibility for the programs and identification of available assistance. Often, it takes a combination of a variety of financial resources to make a project become a reality. Primary coordination for this funding comes from ATP staff. An ATP staff person will continue to serve on the Loan Review Board for the Easter Seals Alternative Financing and Telework Loan Programs. This collaboration will help ensure that ATP will be able to provide consumers with all available information to make an informed decision about the technology they want and the financial assistance that can be used if needed. Each of the four ATP offices will have equipment available for demonstration and loan. Equipment will be shared between sites to ensure that a wide variety of devices are available without unnecessary duplication. In addition, ATP will continue an agreement with Nebraska Educational Assistive Technology (NEAT provides assistive technology services to Nebraska's schools and Early Intervention program) to share demonstration and loan equipment to further enhance the diversity and availability of equipment available for trial use. ATP will also continue working with 20 Workforce Development One Stop Centers (they focus on employment) to make assistive technology equipment available for demonstration purposes at each of their locations across the state.
ATP will continue its collaboration with Nebraska Educational Assistive Technology to expand the use of a listing of used equipment available for others who need it. The web-based listing is called TechConnectors. Individuals will be able to find out what is available for sale or free by going directly to this website or contacting a toll free phone number for information. ATP will be contracting with selected groups (to be identified through a request for proposals process) to list their recycled equipment on TechConnectors to increase the number of devices available.

2.1B Identification and Description of the Lead Agency if an Implementing Entity is Designated. Not applicable.

2.2 Identification and Description of the Implementing Entity – Identify and describe the Implementing Entity referred to in section 4(c)(1)(B) of the AT Act, if such an Implementing Entity is designated by the Governor. Not applicable.

2.3 Show of Good Cause for Change in Lead Agency or Implementing Entity – If the Governor has chosen to change the Lead Agency or, if applicable, Implementing Entity as allowed in section 4(c)(1)(C) of the AT Act, provide an explanation of good cause for this redesignation. Not applicable.

Attachment 3: State Advisory Council

3.1 Membership of the Advisory Council - Identify the members of the Advisory Council and each member's designation as an individual with disabilities who uses AT, a family member or guardian of such individual, or a representative of a State agency or other entity.
The Advisory Council has 19 members, of which 10 are individuals with disabilities or family members. In addition, several Agency representatives experience a disability or have a family member with a disability, but are not counted toward the majority of individuals with disabilities or family members. A listing of Advisory Council members by designation follows with their term limit date in parentheses.
Individuals with Disabilities: Margaret Cervantes (2006), Stephen Duvall (2007), Alvin Fox (2008), Dylan Garwood (2008), Jerry Hohnbaum (2007), Kevin Ramplin (2006), Steve Speicher (2007), and Martha Woodhouse (2006).
Family Members: Roger and Barb Brimmerman (2006)-serve jointly, Mary McAlpine (2007).
Agency Representatives: Pete Biaggio (2008), Nebraska Department of Education, Special Populations; Nancy Coffman (2006), Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired; Lind Carey (2007), League of Human Dignity (Center for Independent Living); Pat Compton (2007), Nebraska Department of Economic Development; Terri Holman (2008), Health and Human Services System, Nebraska Planning Council on Developmental Disabilities; Dennis King (2008), Vocational Rehabilitation; Chuck Leach (2006), Center for Independent Living, Megan Lyons (2008), Nebraska ON-Line; Dr. Pearl Van Zandt (2008), Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired representing Workforce Development.The Council is also geographically representative of Nebraska's population distribution with two individuals from western Nebraska, five from central Nebraska, and twelve from eastern or northeastern Nebraska. The Council includes members who use a variety of devices for mobility, communication, hearing, and vision.

3.2 Structure and Operation of the Advisory Council – Describe the structure and operations of the Advisory Council.
Agency representatives of the Advisory Council were appointed by their respective agencies. Consumer and family member representatives were solicited through Centers for Independent Living, various councils, ATP staff, consumer networks and consumer service providers.
The Advisory Council is led by a Chairperson who was elected by a majority of the members at the first meeting of the year. The Council will determine the need for any Task Forces or Subcommittees as necessary during the course of their duties. Members will come from the Council and may include non-Council consumers, family members, and agency representatives depending on the specific area of focus of the Task Force or Subcommittee. Council decisions are by consensus or a majority vote at the discretion of the Chair. Robert's Rules of Order are followed at Council meetings. Training was provided on Robert's Rules of Order prior to the first meeting of the year. The Council is in the process of adopting by-laws and is expected to do so at its August meeting.
The Council will meet in-person at least twice each year at sites to be selected by the Council. ATP staff provide support in making arrangements for the meetings, including scheduling the meeting room, ensuring site accessibility, assisting with travel arrangements, and preparing alternative format materials. ATP staff work with the Council Chair to establish an agenda for the meeting. A public notice is placed in a statewide newspaper at least 10 days prior to the meeting to notify anyone interested in attending and providing input. Meetings feature staff presentations on activities and information as requested by the Council. The Chair leads the meeting and facilitates discussion on agenda items. A Council representative volunteered to take minutes at the first meeting, but at the request of the Council, an ATP staff person will be assigned this responsibility for future meetings.

Attachment 4: Measurable Goals

The Nebraska Assistive Technology Partnership will establish a baseline for each of the goals 4.1 through 4.7 during year one of the State Plan and will submit after year one an amendment identifying the long term goal and short-term goals set to improve upon this baseline during years two and three of the State Plan.

4.1 Goal for Improving Access to AT in Education

4.2 Goal for Improving Access to AT in Employment

4.3 Goal for Improving Access to AT in Community Living

4.4 Goal for Improving Access to IT and Telecommunications• Long-term goal:

4.5 Goal for Improving Acquisition of AT in Education

4.6 Goal for Improving Acquisition of AT in Employment

4.7 Goal for Improving Acquisition of AT in Community Living

4.8 Additional Measurable Goals -- If applicable, describe any measurable goals that the State has set in addition to the goals established in items 4.1 through 4.7 for addressing the assistive technology needs of individuals with disabilities in the State related to education, employment, community living, and telecommunications and information technology. Not Applicable.

Attachment 5: State-level Activities

5.1 State Financing Activities – Describe how the State will implement State financing activities as described in section 4(e)(2)(A) of the AT Act.
During the next three years, ATP's major initiative will be working with funding sources in Nebraska to provide program administration and support through technical and financial assistance, to help consumers find and acquire assistive technology. The State Finance Activity essentially creates a One Stop for Assistive Technology Financing.
ATP will directly administer programs providing assistive technology devices and services for the following agencies:

• Nebraska Health and Human Services System (includes the Medicaid Home and Community Based Waiver, Medically Handicapped Children's Program, Disabled Children's Program, Disabled Persons and Family Support Program, Economic Assistance, Subsidized Adoption, Child Protective Services, and Adult Protective Services)
• Nebraska Vocational Rehabilitation (Title I and Part B Programs)
• Nebraska Veterans Affairs, Vocational Rehabilitation
• Nebraska Department of Education, Special Populations
• Nebraska Housing Developers Association

• Staff support through technical assistance during on-site visits, demonstration of solutions (including drafting of plans and specifications), and trial use of equipment, results in less equipment being abandoned. Our follow-up surveys show that 95% of individuals are still using their assistive technology versus national studies that estimate an abandonment rate of 40% or higher.
• More than 17% of Medicaid Aged and Disabled Waiver cases require additional funding beyond the $5,000 capped amount available. Four years ago the number was around 13% and has now grown to just over 100 individuals per year. These individuals would not be able to get any help without ATP's program administration and support in identifying alternative financing to supplement Waiver funding. Last year alone, ATP authorized just over $1.5 million of Waiver funds but also found an additional $312,000 to allow projects to be fully funded.
• Program administration and support for this alternative financing system across areas has also resulted in documented success in reducing costs through re-use of equipment. The support provided across program areas has created an economy of scale that no single program in Nebraska can achieve in acting alone. Equipment across areas of education, employment, and health can be managed with ATP's support to be re-used in publicly funded projects. The cost of vertical exterior platform lifts in Nebraska has gone from an average cost of $3,949 per consumer project in 2002 to an average of $2,573 in 2005. The dramatic reduction in cost is directly due to the increase in use of recycled equipment as a result of ATP's support.

1. ATP is contacted for information by phone (toll free numbers connect to all local ATP offices across the state) or by e-mail or in person. ATP will use the AT&T Language Line services for non-English speaking individuals.
2. A Service and Device Request Form will be sent out and completed by the consumer or family. The form will be available on ATP's web site. Referrals may also come directly from agencies that contract with ATP for services (Vocational Rehabilitation, and Health and Human Services System).
3. The Service and Device Request Form will be sent to the local ATP office or central office in Lincoln.
4. The Service and Device Application form will be forwarded to a Program Coordinator for preliminary identification of programs that might assist the individual with funding for assistive technology.
5. The Program Coordinator will contact a Technology Specialist at one of the local ATP offices to schedule an on-site visit with consumer.
6. An appointment will be scheduled with the consumer (guardian, family, and agency staff may be included) and on-site visit will occur. The Technology Specialist will work with the consumer to identify possible assistive technology solutions to address expressed areas of need.
7. A report will be completed which may include any or all of the following: recommendation, vendors or contractors, estimates or quotations, as requested by the consumer, agency staff person or ATP Program Coordinator.
8. The report will be submitted to the Program Coordinator for identification of appropriate resources. If additional resources are needed outside of the programs that are administered by ATP, the Program Coordinator coordinates with appropriate agencies or consumer to arrange for funding of recommended assistive devices and/or modifications.
9. Once funding sources have been arranged, ATP will authorize the vendor/contractor to provide services by issuance of a Service Authorization. The form outlines work to be done, sources of payment and invoicing instructions. Copies will be sent to the contractor, consumer, and Service Coordinators (as appropriate).
10. The vendor/contractor will work with the consumer to schedule and complete the specified work.
11. Upon completion, the ATP Technology Specialist will complete a final inspection and obtain a signed consumer acceptance form from the consumer indicating that the work has been completed to their satisfaction.
12. ATP will submit the contractor/vendor's invoice and the consumer acceptance form to appropriate funding sources for payment and in some cases, issue payment for completed work.
13. Six weeks after completion of work, ATP will survey the consumer to make sure that they are still satisfied with the work or to identify any issues. Follow-up assistance will be provided if needed.

As another alternative financing option, the Easter Seals Loan Programs (Alternative Financing Program funded under Title III of the Assistive Technology Act of 1998, as in effect prior to the amendments of 2004; and a Telework Loan Program) have been and will continue to be incorporated into the resource identification and coordination that is part of the One Stop State Financing System process.

There are two Loan Programs:
Nebraska Alternative Financing Program (AFP) provides low or reduced interest loans to qualified Nebraskans with disabilities for the purchase of assistive technology devices and assistive technology services. This includes but is not limited to wheelchairs, motorized scooters, Braille equipment, scanners, hearing aids, augmentative communication systems, environmental control units, computers and adaptive computer peripherals, building modifications for accessibility, motor vehicle modifications for accessibility, and motor vehicles requiring modifications for accessibility (where the value of the vehicle is greater than the cost of the modifications).
Nebraska Telework Loan Program provides low or reduced interest loans to qualified Nebraskans with disabilities for the purchase of assistive technology devices and services necessary for securing telework opportunities from home or other permanent remote sites. This includes but is not limited to computers, printers, software, fax machines, scanners, office machines, telecommunication devices, telecommunication system installation charges, office furniture, home modifications for accessibility and/or to create home offices, motor vehicles, and other assistive technology.
Loans for both programs range from $1,500 to $50,000, have an interest rate of 2 points below the national prime rate and have a maximum term of 10 years. AFP and Telework funds are used to provide a loan guarantee (50%) to the lender, First National Bank of Omaha.

Individuals initially complete a Service and Device Request Form that is reviewed by ATP's Funding Coordinator to identify and inform the consumer of possible financing options. If a consumer chooses to pursue a financial loan, a referral is made to Easter Seals. Individuals may also start with Easter Seals and then be referred back to ATP for funding coordination. The Easter Seals Loan Program Coordinator, ATP's Funding Coordinator, and the individual applicant, work together to coordinate all available sources of funding to acquire the assistive technology. Easter Seals contracts with ATP to provide support for on-site technology assessments and assistance in obtaining quotes. A Loan Review Board reviews and approves/denies loan applications. They meet weekly to ensure timely consideration of all requests. If a loan is approved, individuals can choose to receive additional assistance from ATP to ensure the work is completed satisfactorily.

5.2 Device Reutilization Program – Describe how the State will implement a device reutilization program as described in section 4(e)(2)(B) of the Act.
ATP will continue to work with Nebraska Educational Assistive Technology to operate TechConnectors, a web-based listed of used equipment for sale or free. This site has undergone extensive revisions to increase its ease of use for consumers. Nebraskans, regardless of location in the state, will be able to access the listing of used equipment via the Internet at any time or by calling a toll free number during office hours of operation. The site is 508 compliant to ensure access by anyone regardless of disability.
Equipment available on the listing will vary tremendously based on experience, but often includes mobility devices, communication devices, vision aids, and computer hardware and software. Individual users will be assigned accounts and can look for specific devices or place a notice that they are looking for a particular device. Arrangements for exchanges will be the responsibility of the parties involved. Individuals or agencies listing equipment may place restrictions on the use of equipment. For example, some equipment will only be available for educational purposes as it was purchased by the school system and is only available to other schools for their students. However, most equipment will be available for anyone in the state that has a need in education, employment, community living, or recreation.
For individuals that can access the TechConnectors equipment database via Internet, a User's Guide has been developed and will continue to be used. The process for accessing TechConnectors will be:

1. Log on to www.techconnectors.net
2. First time users set up an account to see detailed information about items or to list items in the database.
3. Once an account is established, individuals can browse categories of equipment or conduct a customized search for a specific item.
4. Individuals can also list equipment by following on screen instructions. For individuals that do not have Internet access, they will simply call any of the local office toll free numbers to ask for assistance from ATP staff to search for available equipment or to list equipment for them.

During the next three years, ATP will provide mini-grants to entities that have established equipment reutilization programs to participate in listing their equipment on the web-based TechConnectors. This will expand the number of items available for no or low cost to consumers. Materials will be developed and distributed to businesses in order to solicit used computer donations. Marketing of TechConnectors to consumers and agencies that work with consumers will increase to encourage usage of the equipment listings. Marketing will include dissemination of brochures and user guides, presentations at agency conferences, and other strategies to be determined in conjunction with NEAT and ATP Advisory Councils.
Funding for a half an ATP staff person's time and operational expenses has come from another grant. It is unclear at this time if that will continue. If funding for staff and operational expenses is lost, the amount budgeted under this activity will be used to replace those funds and the amount available for mini-grants will be reduced proportionately.
TechConnectors will help individuals with disabilities obtain assistive technology devices by creating a marketplace for equipment that is often free or low cost. This will provide an opportunity for individuals with disabilities to find more affordable equipment without having to meet eligibility criteria and limitations for public and private programs. The identification and use of used equipment will also make it possible for programs with limited resources to extend their funds to assist more individuals or make it possible to complete a project under capped amounts.

5.3 Device Loan Program – Describe how the State will implement a device loan program as described in section 4(e)(2)(C) of the Act.
Over the next three years, ATP will expand its inventory of a wide variety of assistive devices for loan to individuals and businesses for trial use. In the past, funds have been available from Vocational Rehabilitation and a federal Department of Labor grant to purchase equipment for loan for trial use for employment purposes. ATP has provided funds to NEAT to expand their loan equipment for educational purposes. During the next three years, ATP will use funds to purchase additional loan equipment for independent living and community interaction (recreation and social activities) and to make upgrades in ATP's existing equipment inventory as necessary. In addition, ATP will collaborate with other existing loan programs to utilize the TechConnectors database as a way to expand the comprehensiveness of the equipment listed for short-term loans.
The items will be tracked using a web-based program called TechConnectors. This database is also used by NEAT and the entire inventory is available for both programs to use for loans. Nebraskans, regardless of location in the state, will be able to access the listing of equipment available for loan at any of ATP's offices or NEAT via the Internet at any time or by calling a toll free number during office hours of operation. The site is 508 compliant to ensure access by anyone regardless of disability.
Individuals will use the web-based system or a toll free phone number to access information about what equipment is available for loan, information about the equipment itself, and how to reserve the equipment (process is the same as that for the equipment reutilization program). ATP and NEAT will have designated staff to coordinate the loan program. Staff will check out the equipment to the individual and monitor its return. Items will be mailed out to the individual, delivered by ATP or NEAT staff, or picked up on site, depending on circumstances. Individuals will complete a loan form describing conditions of the loan and return requirements. Loans will generally be for no more than two weeks. Exceptions to the length of the loan policy will be at the discretion of the Program Coordinators.
Equipment loans will be tracked through TechConnectors and loan data will be used to determine what equipment is being used the most and at what locations. Purchases and changes in where the equipment is housed will be based on these reports.
The opportunity to try out equipment for an extended period of time allows individuals with disabilities, their families, and professionals to learn more about what devices will meet their needs or the needs of those they are serving within the environment where it will be used. The trial use of equipment will provide valuable experience and information for individuals as they make choices about what will best meet their needs. In some cases, equipment loans will provide the bridge the gap between the immediate need for assistive technology and the time it takes to acquire the assistive device through public or private financing systems.

5.4 Device Demonstration Program – Describe how the State will implement a device demonstration program as described in section 4(e)(2)(D) of the Act.
Device demonstrations will occur at ATP offices, Department of Labor One Stop Resource Centers, NEAT, or via mobile demonstrations at individual worksites, schools, and homes. A variety of assistive technology devices for persons of all ages and disabilities will be available to the extent that resources allow. ATP will acquire and make available mobility devices, communication devices, hearing devices, vision aids, and computer hardware and software from a variety of manufacturers to allow for demonstration of a broad range of available product features.
For individuals that can access the TechConnectors equipment database via Internet, the listing of specific demonstration equipment and its location will be available on line. For individuals that do not have Internet access, they will simply call any of the local office toll free numbers to ask for assistance from ATP staff to find specific demonstration equipment and its location, or to arrange for an equipment demonstration locally. Technology Specialists, experienced in the operation of the devices, will be available to assist in trying out the equipment. In many cases, ATP staff will transport equipment directly to individual's homes and the equipment demonstrated in the environment where it will be used. This will generally occurs as part of an on-site assessment.
Over the next three years, ATP will maintain and expand its inventory of a wide variety of assistive devices for demonstration at four offices located in Omaha, Lincoln, Kearney and Scottsbluff. These ATP offices are strategically located across the state to provide for a geographic distribution of services. Demonstration items will be tracked using a web-based program called TechConnectors. This database will also be used by Nebraska Educational Assistive Technology (NEAT) and the entire inventory available for both programs to use for demonstration. This strategy allows for a wide variety of demonstration equipment to be available and decreases the amount of unwarranted duplication among sites. ATP and NEAT staff will generally be able to transport items between sites within a week of notification. In some cases, the equipment will be mailed to the most convenient demonstration site for the individual.
In order to increase the comprehensiveness of available devices, and to make the most effective use of available demonstration equipment, ATP will seek out additional partners to list their demonstration devices in the TechConnectors database. This will expand the number of participating sites and increase the opportunities for individuals with disabilities across the state to explore potential assistive technology solutions.
During the next three years, ATP will work on improving its tracking system to make sure that demonstration center equipment is meeting the needs of its users. Equipment demonstrations will be tracked through TechConnectors and the information will be used to determine what equipment is being used the most and at what locations. Purchases and changes in where the equipment is housed will be based on those reports as well as information to be obtained for federal reporting purposes.
Device demonstrations will provide an opportunity for individuals with disabilities, their families, and professionals, the opportunity to experience a number of different devices with the availability of expert assistance from a Technology Specialist if they so choose. Device demonstrations will provide valuable experience and information for individuals as they make choices about what will best meet their needs. Demonstrations will also help individuals determine a potential device's compatibility with assistive technology devices they may already be using; saving time, money, and frustration on equipment purchases that don't work. ATP will also be able to provide information about available vendors and their location, technical support, training, and financing for devices, if individuals request this as part of making an informed decision.

Attachment 6: Comparable Support

Not applicable. During the next three years, Nebraska will be carrying out all 4 State-level activities.

6.1 Source and Amount of Support – Identify the State-level activity for which there is comparable support, the source of this support, the amount of the support, and the project year for which this support is being provided.

6.2 Comparability -- Demonstrate that this support is comparable in terms of funding and that the activities are comparable in terms of scope.

6.3 Coordination and Collaboration – Describe how the State will coordinate activities and collaborate with the appropriate entity, if the comparable funds are provided to, or the activities are conducted by, an entity other than the Lead Agency or Implementing Entity.

Attachment 7: State Flexibility

Not applicable. During the next three years, Nebraska will be carrying out all 4 State-level activities.

7.1 Activity – Identify each State-level activity the State is choosing not to carry out.

7.2 Maintenance of Statewideness and Comprehensiveness – Demonstrate that the Statewide AT Program will continue to be comprehensive without conducting this activity.

7.3 Achievement of Measurable Goals - Demonstrate that the State can reach its measurable education goals, employment goals, telecommunications and information technology goals, and community living goals without conducting such activities.

7.4 Coordination and Collaboration – Describe how the Lead Agency or Implementing Entity will coordinate activities and collaborate with entities in the State that do conduct this activity, if the State chooses not to conduct this activity because another entity already conducts it.

Attachment 8: State Leadership Activities

8.1 Training and Technical Assistance Activities – Describe how the State will provide training and technical assistance to enhance the knowledge, skills, and competencies of individuals from local settings statewide, including representatives of State and local educational agencies, other State and local agencies, early intervention programs, adult service programs, hospitals and other health care facilities, institutions of higher education and businesses as described in section 4(e)(3)(B)(i) of the AT Act.
During the next three years, the primary focus of training will be to enhance the skills, knowledge and competencies of staff of the Assistive Technology Partnership, Nebraska Educational Assistive Technology, Nebraska Commission for the Blind and Visually Impaired, and Nebraska Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing in assessing the need for assistive technology devices and services. Training on identification of functional limitations and resulting needs of persons with disabilities, specific assistive devices and their use, inspecting for proper installations, and available financial resources will be provided. As training is scheduled, other State and local entities are notified of the type of training and the location so that they can participate. All entities are also encouraged to invite their consumers to any of the training as well. Given the limited amount of funding that is available, this strategy allows us to reach a core group of individuals who have a primary responsibility in our state system to provide technical assistance and support to individual users of assistive technology.
General awareness training on the benefits of assistive technology and funding sources available to help acquire assistive technology will be provided by ATP to State and local agencies (Vocational Rehabilitation and Health and Human Services), adult service programs (Area Agency on Aging), and Centers for Independent Living as a part of contracts and grants from other resources. Trainings generally occur at statewide conferences and events to reach individuals from all parts of the state.
ATP will be providing training on accessible web design, consistent with Section 508 design standards, to non-profits, State and educational agencies, and institutions of higher education (with a first year focus on community colleges). The training increases the core competency and knowledge of designers to create more accessible web sites. Technical assistance will be provided to higher education institutions to integrate information on accessible web site design into their core curricula.
NEAT receives funding from the Nebraska Department of Education to provide training to local educational agencies, schools, and early intervention programs. During the next year, training will focus on increasing the technology skills of transition age students through the provision of two summer academies for in-depth instruction on assistive technologies for selected students (one academy for high school juniors with reading/writing disabilities to build skills to be used in high school and in higher education; and one academy for students who are blind or visually impaired and use Braille technologies).
In addition to the technology skills training for transition students, NEAT will be providing technical assistance to students, parents, VR staff, educators, school transition specialists, and the Transition Advisory Council, to increase awareness of the need for technology planning for students of transition age so that more students with disabilities will have the necessary technology skills and knowledge as they move to higher education. Technical assistance will include informational materials related to assistive technology and transition such as flyers and handouts of examples of tools for the workplace and higher education, available discounts, and a listing of loan pool items particularly relevant for transition age students.
During the three years of the State Plan, ATP will provide technical assistance for the development of a web-based resource to provide transition assistance to adults with disabilities transitioning to community living. Funding will be used to buy into an existing web-based search engine to identify affordable accessible housing, community supports and resources, including assistive technology services. This will be of assistance as part of Nebraska's initiative to move individuals with mental illness out of institutional settings and back to communities and community-based services. Tracking and using already modified housing will speed up the process of transition and make best use of existing resources. This effort will be in collaboration with the Client Assistance Program, Nebraska Department of Economic Development and Nebraska Investment Finance Authority. Technical assistance will come from ATP in the identification of available community supports, particularly for assistive technology and home modifications.

8.2 Public Awareness Activities – Describe how the State will provide information to targeted individuals and entities relating to the availability, benefits, appropriateness, and costs of assistive technology devices and assistive technology services as described in section 4(e)(3)(B)(ii) of the AT Act.
Over the next three years, ATP will provide information on assistive technology devices and services and funding resources to acquire assistive technology utilizing the following basic strategies.

1. A toll free phone number available to anyone in the state.
2. A 508 compliant web site. The web site will link to the national web site on assistive technology.
3. A statewide newsletter. The newsletter will cover information about assistive technology devices and services in education, employment, health, community living, and information technology. The newsletter will be published twice a year and will be distributed to public and private agencies, consumers, One Stop Centers, Vocational Rehabilitation offices, employers, schools, and other targeted individuals and entities. Distribution will be by e-mail when possible to reduce costs, and all volumes will be archived and available on our web site. The newsletter will be available in alternative formats.
   
4. A brochure and other materials. Materials will continue to be developed and distributed to consumers, State agencies, employers, schools, and other targeted individuals and entities. The cost of these materials is generally covered by other grants and contracts as a collaborative effort.
ATP will design and develop most items in-house. All materials will be available in alternative formats
5. ATP will also collaborate on local and statewide events to conduct public awareness activities across the state. We plan to continue participation in events such as the State Fair, Governor's Conference on Employment (hosted by Workforce Development), the Vocational Rehabilitation Statewide Staff Conference, Joint Agency Meeting in Western Nebraska (hosted by a Center for Independent Living), the Nebraska Housing Conference (in Central Nebraska), and others as recommended by our Advisory Council. We will also continue to collaborate with NEAT to participate in educational conferences and events across the state.

8.3 Coordination and Collaboration – Describe how the State will coordinate activities among public and private entities that are responsible for policies, procedures, or funding for the provision of assistive technology devices and assistive technology services to individuals with disabilities, service providers, and others to improve access to assistive technology devices and assistive technology services as described in section 4(e)(3)(B)(iii) of the AT Act.
During the next three years, ATP will specifically be coordinating efforts to improve access to assistive technology devices and services for two targeted groups: persons with acquired brain injuries and individuals with developmental disabilities.

1. As a member of the Traumatic Brain Injury Council, ATP will be assisting in the development of legislation to establish a Brain Injury Trust Fund that will expand services under existing Waivers and establish an Interim Crisis Fund for individuals with brain injuries who do not qualify for any Waivers. Legislation will be introduced in the first year of this state plan and subsequent years will hopefully be focused on implementation.
2. ATP will offer technical assistance and training to the Developmental Disabilities System as a collaborative effort geared to identifying the costs of expanding existing Developmental Disability (DD) Waivers to include assistive technology and environmental modifications. A Community Supports Program Pilot will be expanded to include the entire state and ATP will work with the Developmental Disabilities System to provide program support to identify and acquire assistive technology for individuals that choose to participate in the new program. Information will be acquired and used to document the cost of services and devices to project what the cost will be to expand other DD Waivers. In the third year of the state plan, ATP will present a report to HHS including findings and recommendations to changes in policies, procedures, and funding.

Over the next three years, ATP will take the lead in increasing the use of a visitability design standard for publicly funded housing in Nebraska. ATP will collaborate with the State Independent Living Council, Planning Council on Developmental Disabilities, and the Department of Economic Development to develop language for program standards and possible state legislation.
Coordination and collaboration is an essential component of Nebraska's One Stop Financing System and will continue over the next three years. The One Stop Financing System has served as a model for collaboration and coordination between public and private entities. ATP helped create guidelines and procedures for funding of assistive technology in the Medicaid Aged and Disabled Waiver and the Vocational Rehabilitation Part B Independent Living Program and administers their financial assistance for assistive technology and home modification services. These publicly funded programs use ATP's support to ensure that consumers are provided with information on assistive technology solutions and to coordinate financial resources across areas of education, employment, health and housing to come up with the funding so that consumers can acquire the assistive technology they need. This activity will continue during the next three years under the State Financing Activity.

Attachment 9: Involvement of Public and Private Entities

9.1 Nature and Extent of Resources – Describe the nature and extent of resources that will be committed by public and private collaborators to assist in accomplishing identified goals.
The following information lists major grants and contracts to ATP that are expected to continue during the next three years and describes the services that will be provided under each activity.

NE Health and Human Services: $540,000 In-home assessments for AT and home modifications.
This activity will be a collaboration of a number of Health and Human Services programs including the Home and Community Based Waiver, Medically Handicapped Children's Program, Disabled Children's Program, Disabled Persons and Family Support Program, Economic Assistance, Subsidized Adoption, Child Protective Services, and Adult Protective Services. The Department of Health and Human Services will contract with ATP for program administration and support. Under this contract, ATP will provide assessments and authorize Waiver funds to pay for the work to be done as recommended. The program will be focused on providing appropriate assistive technology and home modification solutions to help keep an individual with a disability in their home, living independently, and preventing institutionalization. ATP expects to provide 800-1,000 assessments per year and authorize just under $2,000,000 of Aged and Disabled Medicaid Waiver funds per year for the purchase of assistive technology and home modifications, based on past experience.

Vocational Rehabilitation-Part B: $200,000 Financial assistance to purchase AT and home modifications.
ATP will be administering Part B funds under Vocational Rehabilitation to provide direct financial assistance for the purchase of assistive technology and home modifications for an estimated 80-100 persons each year to allow individuals to live more independently. Part B funding will be primarily used as gap financing when no other resources are available.

Vocational Rehabilitation: $235,000 Work-site assessments for AT and modifications for employment.
Vocational Rehabilitation will contract for program administration and support to provide for assistive technology solutions for employment-related needs of Vocational Rehabilitation consumers with a disability. This will include work-site modifications, computer equipment, software and hardware adaptations, as well as home modifications necessary to allow a person to get out of their home to get to work. Worksite assessments will be provided for an estimated 125-160 persons each year. ATP will provide recommendations to VR staff, who will authorize the purchase of services and equipment.

Educational Service Unit #10: $30,000 To provide for recycling of AT and computers via TechConnectors.
Nebraska Educational Assistive Technology, via Educational Service Unit #10, will contract with ATP to operate the eastern Nebraska recycling site and assist with the implementation of TechConnectors recycling/equipment loan on-line database. The contract will be in place for at least the first year of the state plan. Continuation of funding beyond year one is unknown at this time.

Housing Developers Association: $12,750 To conduct home assessments for accessibility.
Nebraska Housing Developers Association will contract with ATP for assessments conducted in support of Making Homes Accessible (a program that will provide a maximum of $15,000 in the form of a deferred loan for home modifications) and the Homeownership Program (a program that will provide up to $25,000 for down payment assistance, closing costs, rehab and accessibility modifications, and principal buy-down). Based on experience, an estimated 16 individuals will be provided $190,000 in financial assistance for home modifications each year and an estimated 8 individuals will receive $195,000 for homeownership assistance each year through these programs.

Veterans Affairs Vocational Rehabilitation: $100,000 Assessments for AT and modifications for employment and independent living.
ATP will provide program administration and support through technical assistance and on-site assessments for Veterans who are eligible under the VAVR program. Assessments will include assistive technology for employment and independent living related needs. ATP will authorize and pay (using VAVR funds) for the equipment or services that are recommended as a part of program administration. ATP will monitor and inspect the projects. At completion, ATP will conduct a follow-up to ensure that the Veteran is satisfied with the project. An estimated 100 individuals per year will benefit from this assistance.

9.2 Mechanisms to Ensure Coordination - Describe the mechanisms established to ensure coordination of activities and collaboration between the implementing entity, if any, and the State.
Nebraska is not designating an implementing entity, so this item is not applicable.

9.3 Involvement of State Advisory Council -Describe the nature and extent of the involvement of the State Advisory Council in the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the activities carried out through the grant, including setting the measurable goals required in section 4(d)(3).
The State Advisory Council met for the first time on April 27, 2005 and ATP staff provided an overview of the past history of ATP, current activities, and the State Plan requirements. At that time, the Council also provided suggestions as to activities or areas of focus for the next year. Suggestions from the Advisory Council that are included in the State Plan: continuation of the collaborative state financing system; participation in the State Fair; a newsletter; and expansion of services to adults under the DD Waivers.
ATP will work with the Advisory Council to establish a baseline for each of the goals 4.1 through 4.7 during year one of the State Plan and will submit after year one an amendment identifying the long term goal and short-term goals set to improve upon this baseline during years two and three of the State Plan.

Attachment 10: State Support

10.1 State Support for State-level Activities – If applicable, describe how the State will support with State funds any State-level activities described in section 4(e)(2).
The State of Nebraska does not support any of the State-level activities with a direct appropriation of state dollars. Some State agencies do contract with ATP for assistive technology services as outlined in 9.1 Nature and Extent of Resources, and these include targeted state financing, equipment reutilization, equipment loans and equipment demonstration activities.

10.2 State Support for State Leadership Activities - If applicable, describe how the State will support with State funds any State Leadership activities described in section 4(e)(3), if applicable.
The State of Nebraska does not support any of the State Leadership activities with a direct appropriation of state dollars. Some State agencies do contract with ATP for assistive technology services as outlined in 9.1 Nature and Extent of Resources, and these include targeted training and technical assistance, public awareness, and collaboration activities. The Department of Education does contract with ATP for public awareness and collaboration activities targeted to persons with brain injuries in Nebraska and we expect that to continue through at least year one of this state plan.

Attachment 11: Allocation and Utilization of Funds

11.1 Tracking Expenditures – Describe planned procedures for tracking expenditures for activities described in sections 4(e)(2) and (3).
The State of Nebraska has made a considerable investment in a web-based accounting system called the Nebraska Information System (NIS). NIS is used by all State agencies to record and track expenditures and revenues. An elaborate coding system has been developed within NIS to enable detailed accounting by business unit and type of expenditure. ATP will request separate business units for State Level and State Leadership activities under this grant and will code expenditures accordingly. At any time, a report can be obtained to monitor expenditures to assure that Nebraska is in compliance with the percentages and budget amounts as per the state plan. It will be the responsibility of the ATP Director to monitor expenditures and to work with the federal Program Monitor to make any adjustments if necessary.

11.2 Proposed Budget Allocations – Attach a budget containing proposed allocations for activities described in sections 4(e)(2) and (3).
The following are proposed budget allocations for State Leadership and State Level Activities for Year 1 of the project. These numbers will serve as an estimate only for Year 2 and Year 3 of this State Plan.
Proposed Distribution Total Award Amount
Allocation $379,533
State Level 71.6% $259,800
State Leadership 28.4% $103,042
Leadership Activities 95% (of 28.4%) $94,042
Transition 8.7% (of 28.4%) $ 9,000
Indirect Costs 4.34% of total $ 16,691
TOTAL $379,533

Within the above budget, ATP proposes to apportion funds for specific activities in the following manner. However, these numbers reflect a proposal only, and will serve as an estimate only for Year 2 and Year 3 of this State Plan.
State Level Activities Proposed Allocation
State Financing Activities $191,800
Device Reutilization Program $30,000
Device Loan Program $18,000
Device Demonstration Program $20,000State Leadership Activities Proposed Allocation
Training and Technical Assistance Activities $31,500
Transition $ 9,000
Public Awareness Activities $42,542
Coordination and Collaboration $20,000