(Press release)

WACO, TEXAS-- With braillewriters ready, laptops open, and pencils sharpened, more than 55 students with visual impairments from 29 schools will compete in the 12th Annual Technology Olympics. The event will take place from 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Thursday, Jan. 29 at ESC Region 12, 2101 W. Loop 340, in Waco. This unique event is one of just a few held in Texas.

Technology, especially assistive technology demonstrated at this event, plays an important role in making the print medium accessible to these students. The technological advances made each year allow students to overcome obstacles they may face from visual impairment. The theme of this year's event is "The Amazing Race." Participants will demonstrate knowledge of equipment unique to students with visual impairments.

Participating districts include: Belton, Blooming Grove, Brenham, China Spring, Clifton, College Station, Copperas Cove, Corsicana, Fairfield, Frost, Gatesville, Groesbeck, Hillsboro, Hubbard, Huntsville, Kerens, Killeen, La Vega, Marlin, Mart, McGregor, Mexia, Midway, Riesel, Robinson, Teague, Temple, Waco and Whitney ISD.

"Assistive technology allows students with disabilities access to the general education curriculum and the ability to perform tasks like any other student—that is important to the success of every child," said Melba Bunch, education specialist for ESC Region 12. "The event is so unique because it is an opportunity for the students to make new friends with others using assistive technology at a time when they may be the only child with a visual impairment in their school."

Activities will include students taking tests and using adaptive devices, such as an electronic notetaker, monocular, laptop with speech and magnification programs or a braillewriter to complete various tasks. The event will also include a creative writing and art section, which gives students an open-ended opportunity to express themselves without the fear of making mistakes. The number of correct answers for each project will determine whether a child wins a gold, silver or bronze medallion. Parents and guardians will have the chance to participate in a simulation that mimics visual impairments, which teaches parents how they can better assist their children with performing daily living tasks, such as eating, house work and personal grooming. Information about postsecondary options and career exploration will also be available to parents of secondary students.

Waco City Council Member Randy Riggs will proclaim January 29 as "Technology Day." The event is co-sponsored by ESC Region 12 and the Department of Assistive and Rehabilitative Services' (DARS) Division for Blind Services. As an in-kind sponsor, the Waco Founder's Lions Club will supply trophies and medals, which they have done for numerous years. The local service group will also provide lunch for the students and parents. Trophies will be presented by DARS Division for Blind Services. The event is free and open to pre-registered participants only.