WATR

WATR
Wyoming Assistive Technology Resources (WATR)
WATR is Wyoming's Assistive Technology Act program and a resource for all assistive
technology (AT) needs in Wyoming. AT may be a device or solution that enhances an
individual's ability to live, play, or work independently. AT can take the form of
a device, tool, or adaptation that supports a person when participating in everyday
activities and settings.
The Assistive Technology Act supports state efforts to improve the provision of assistive
technology by providing states with financial assistance to implement State Level
Activities and State Leadership Activities to meet the assistive technology needs
of individuals with disabilities.
Main Page
WATR
Devices
AAC
AAC Devices
Funding
Success Stories
Training & Resources
WATR Loan Agreement
Wyoming Accessibility Center
Training & Technical Assistance
AEM
Device Database
What is AEM?
Forms & Contracts
AEM Devices
App & Device Tutorials
NIMAC & District Resources
Training & Events
Frequently Asked Questions
WATR Projects
WATR Publications
WATR Forms
Funding Assistive Technology
WATR Staff
Assistive Technology
ECHO Credit Information
Recorded Sessions
Resources
Publications
ECHO Participant Guide
ECHO Model
ECHO in Education
ECHO in Health
ECHO for Families
WYTAP Brochure
Advisory Council Flier
Wyoming AT4ALL
Device Donation
Information and Assistance
Wyoming Assistive Technology Resources (WATR) staff is available to answer questions
for individuals with disabilities, family members, employers, service providers, educators
and anyone needing more information about assistive technology (AT). WATR provides
this service at no cost through use of a toll-free number, e-mail, videoconferencing
technology, or in-person meetings.
Typical questions involve identifying AT device options, providing strategies for
working with agencies, or discussing funding avenues. WATR responds to individual
AT requests through research, using existing products or devices in our assistive
technology loan library, offering WATR services, and by linking individuals to outside
resources.
Email:
watr@uwyo.edu
Phone: (307) 766-6187 or toll free (888) 989-9463
WyTAP Brochure
WYoming AT4all
The Wyoming AT4ALL website is your entry point to view assistive technology available
to all Wyoming residents for short-term six-week loans through the Wyoming Assistive
Technology Resources (WATR) program. You can search by a device name or a device category. You
will need to complete a WATR Device Loan Agreement prior to a loan.
WYAT4ALL
Projects and Information
Devices
Wyoming Assistive Technology Resources (WATR) provides hands-on services and resources
to help individuals and professionals explore, test, and access assistive technology
that supports communication, learning, daily living, and independence.
Devices
Augmentative and Alternative Communications (AAC)
AAC supports individuals of all ages with complex communication needs, and Speech-Language
Pathologists (SLPs) assess and provide AAC systems to help them communicate effectively
across environments, with assessments available through schools, healthcare providers,
or WATR.
AAC
Training and Technical Assistance
Enhance your assistive technology knowledge through our engaging AT Tech Tip Tuesdays
and ECHO in Assistive Technology sessions, which offer professional development, collaborative
learning, and access to materials via the iECHO registration platform.
TRAINING AND Technical Assistance
Accessible Education Materials (AEM)
The Wyoming AEM Clearinghouse supports students with print disabilities by partnering
with school districts to provide accessible educational materials, technical assistance,
device loans, and training through various formats including phone, email, video,
and in-person visits.
AEM
WATR Projects
Discover what WATR is currently doing in the field of assistive technology (AT), explore
its community impact, and expand your knowledge of AT innovations and services.
WATR Projects
Publications
The WATR Publications page offers a variety of reports, bulletins, brochures, and
educational resources—many available in Spanish and alternative formats upon request—with
an option to subscribe to the monthly
dispATch
for updates on assistive technology news and events.
Publications
Forms
The WATR Forms page offers a variety of fillable forms pertaining to devices, assessments,
AEM, and the AT Advisory Council.
Forms
Funding
Assistive technology (AT), including durable medical equipment such as wheelchairs
and speech generating devices, may be funded through private insurance, Medicaid or
Medicare as payers of last resort, or state agencies depending on eligibility, intended
use, and setting.
Funding AT
Notice of Privacy Practices
The Wyoming Accessibility Center (WAC) adheres to the privacy practices for protected
health informaiton. For more information regarding and to see our full notice, please
download the PDF.
Notice of Privacy Practices for Protected Health Information (PDF)
WATR Team
The Wyoming Assistive Technology Resources (WATR) team expands access to tools, education,
and support that help individuals with disabilities across the state live, work, and
play more independently.
MEET THE WATR TEAM
May 23, 2025: WY Commemorates Assistive Tech Month
May 23, 2025 Wyoming Governor Mark Gordon signed the proclamation to commemorate Wyoming
Assistive Technology Awareness Month at the Wyoming State Capitol in Cheyenne, WY.
In attendance were members of the Wyoming Institute for Disabilities (WIND) Assistive
Technology Advisory Council and WIND and WATR faculty and staff.
Top row left to right: Nick Wiseman, Krista Zwieg, Terri Wofford, Gene McDowell, Governor
Mark Gordon, Michelle Jarman, Chele Mecomber Porter, Gisele Knopf, Rebekah Smith Hazelton,
and Mr. Porter
Bottom row left to right: Shelby Kapper and guide dog Olana, Mason McDowell, Sam Burkett,
and Kylie Porter
Assessments
WATR provides assistance in identifying appropriate assistive technology (AT) and/or
augmentative alternative communication (AAC) for yourself, your student/client, or
family member.
Our credentialed staff members are dedicated to providing current and high quality
information about devices and services to increase knowledge and to facilitate participation
in learning, communicating, and other life activities.
In an effort to meet the needs for AT/AAC, we are now providing three tiers of support
services. During your initial request, WATR staff will complete an Intake Form designed
to help us understand the AT/AAC needs. Upon completion of the Intake Form, WATR staff
will discuss options of support, beginning with our Tier 1 services.
Tier 1 services may include any or all of the following:
Information and assistance related to potential AT/AAC devices
Device demonstration activities
Device trials through the WATR loan program
Technical assistance and training using the device
Vendor information, cost, and possible sources of funding
If additional support following Tier 1 services is required, the participant may take
advantage of Tier 2 services.  Tier 2 services may include any or all of the following:
A de-identified case presentation to the UW ECHO AT network and professional learning
community
Virtual consultation with a WATR AT/AAC specialist. Consultations will guide the individuals
existing support team through the AT/AAC assessment process. WATR staff will provide
a written 1-page summary of considerations and may include additional device trials
and trainings.
Follow-up to determine success with considerations following implementation
Vendor information, cost, and possible sources of funding
The consumer does not incur a charge for any Tier 1 or 2 services.
If Tier 1 or Tier 2 services are unable to determine successful AT/AAC solutions,
the participant may consider requesting an AT/AAC assessment.   The AT/AAC assessment
is a fee for service approach billed through the Wyoming Accessibility Center (WAC).
Assessments are currently being conducted virtually.  Please refer to the Fee for
Service Rate Sheet for an outline of costs associated with the assessment.
For questions and to schedule an AT assessment contact WATR at (307) 766-2932 or
watr@uwyo.edu
Permission to Videotape form
Permission to Videotape form (Spanish)
Authorization for Release of Confidential Information form
Authorization for Release of Confidential Information form (Spanish)
Professional Services Agreement
Fee-for-Service-Rate-Sheet
More WATR Forms
Notice of Privacy Practices
The Wyoming Accessibility Center (WAC) adheres to the privacy practices for protected
health information. For more information regarding and to see our full notice, please
NOTICE OF PRIVACY PRACTICES FOR PROTECTED HEALTH INFORMATION.
Wyoming AT Awareness Month Video Compilation
In May 2023, a series of compiled videos highlighting key initiatives and community
impact stories were presented to Governor Mark Gordon as part of a formal lead-up
to the proclamation signing. These videos were carefully curated to showcase the importance
and reach of the programs being recognized, helping to contextualize the significance
of the proclamation.
AT Advisory Council
In 2004, Governor Freudenthal designated the Wyoming Institute for Disabilities (WIND)
to be the lead agency to administer the state assistive technology project as authorized
by the federal Assistive Technology Act of 2004. As a result, the Wyoming Assistive
Technology Resources program was established.
The WATR program serves Wyoming resident needs related to assistive technology, in
collaboration with the advisory committee. The legislation stipulates that we must
provide core activities, such as assistive technology loans, device demonstrations,
device, technical assistance, and dissemination of information. In addition, this
Act requires us to maintain an advisory council for the project to include members
who represent assistive technology users as well as key members who can support and
inform efforts in areas of education, health, independent living employment.
Responsibilities of this Council include attendance at bi-annual meetings where members
will help the WATR team to evaluate, develop, and implement strategies for the core
activities listed above.
Dates and times of the next council meeting will be announced.
Resources for Members of the WIND Assistive Technology Advisory Council.
Bylaws of the Council, updated Nov. 2019
Janna Walker
Chele Mecomber Porter, Chair
Kylie Porter
Cheryl Godley
Jenna Rector
Laurel Henry
Nicky Harper
Lori Regnier
Matthew Mayberry
Tawny Kelley
Brandi Martin
Tina Bennett
Caleb Hebbert
Hunter Jones
Lauren Hulit-White
Nicholas Wiseman
Rebekah Smith Hazelton
Steven Millward
Sam Burkett
Jennifer D'Alessandro, Vice Chair
Cortnee Fabrizius-Johnston
Karen Clark
Spencer Clark
Gene McDowell
Mason McDowell
Gaylene Ring-Guth
T.J. Mechem
Join our next AT Advisory Council meeting!
Wyoming Assistive Technology Resources (WATR) is looking for users of assistive technology/self-advocates,
family members, and professionals who serve individuals with disabilities to join
our Assistive Technology (AT) Advisory Council.
Consider joining our next Council meeting in the spring or fall! You can join through
Zoom or in person at the designated location to learn about WATR and consider serving
on our Council.
The WATR Council members advise the WATR staff about strategies to reach and serve
individuals with disabilities, families, and professionals in Wyoming. The council
also provides an opportunity for members to voice interests and views on issues related
to device loans, trainings, demonstrations, research and information and assistance.
The Council meets twice a year in the spring and fall with lodging and transportation
reimbursement for Council members provided.
Advisory Council Flier
Wyoming Assistive Technology Resources
Wyoming Institute for Disabilities
1000 E. University Ave
Laramie, WY 82071
Dept. 4298, Room 151
Email:
watr@uwyo.edu
Phone:
(307) 766-6187
The University of Wyoming has earned its Research Level 1 (R1) status from the Carnegie
Classification of Institutions of Higher Education, placing Wyoming's only four-year
university with the
top research universities
in the United States.