Linda McDonald

Linda's first experience working with persons with disabilities was the summer of 1971, in the Deaf Blind Program. She worked with the program for several years and was also a paraprofessional with the Topeka School district for several years.

In 1976 she worked with the TARC's Children's Services in a classroom for a year and half. In 1980 she returned to the public schools as a paraprofessional and was placed at TARC in 1982 in that position. She became an official TARC employee again in 1988 as an occupational therapy and speech therapy paraprofessional.

Linda was instrumental in getting the first computer for TARC in 1986; however the Assistive Technology program officially started in 1989 when Linda's time was divided between the children and the adult programs.

Soon after communication devices were becoming a part of the adult's lives. Linda learned how to program and care for the devices and supported staff who worked with the person using the device.

Linda has attended many training sessions with the Capper Foundation, Kansas University, and the Closing the Gap conferences. She has tremendous experience in developing software programs using Hyper Studio for individual children and adults.

From the beginning of the Assistive Technology Program, she has worked closely with her husband Cleo, who also worked for TARC as an Area Instructor, to develop and create adaptive switches, toys and devices for children and adults. Cleo jointed the Assistive Technology program in 1997 as the Adaptive Equipment Specialist.

Linda has been the coordinator for the Assistive Technology program since it began. She has seen many changes and looks forward to the program growing and developing new ideas to support the individuals we serve.

Contact Linda at 232-0597, ext. 338, or .