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    Region 11 Guidelines

    FAQs

     

    Education Service Center Region 11 is excited to offer a program called Region Eleven Assistive Technology Access (REATA) Robots. This program will utilize VGo Robots, an innovative solution that allows students to attend classes via interactive videoconferencing while recovering from a long-term illness, injury, or other factors requiring the student to be homebound or not able to be present in the classroom.

    From home or the hospital using a computer or tablet, the student is able to “drive” the robot to school assemblies as well as to each of their classes. In class, the student will be able to actively participate in lessons, discussions, and group work. This allows the student to develop strong teacher and peer relationships, stay socially connected, boost morale by providing tangible health benefits, and receive quality instruction without falling behind on coursework.

    Reasons for use include, but are not limited to:

    • Homebound - illness, transplant, surgery, pregnancy
    • In-school suspension
    • Disciplinary Alternative Education Programs (DAEP)

    District Benefits

    Districts benefit from this service by reducing homebound teacher/tutor costs, receiving potential ADA income in some instances with the use of waivers, and ensuring homebound students receive a quality education. An added benefit is increased community support and recognition for providing innovative technology solutions for students. 
     
    Examples of Students Using VGo
     
    Please visit the VGo "Meet Students" page to see highlights of the successful implementation of this program.  
     
    Qualifications
     
    Region 11 has a limited number of robots. REATA robots will be loaned to districts on a case-by-case basis. Guidelines, District Requirements, and a Request for Consideration form is located at the top of this page. There will be a rental fee for non-member districts or districts that request more than one robot of $150 per 30 days. 

    Contact
    Lori Hamm-Neckar
    Distance Learning Program Manager
    (817)740-7516