2026 Early Hearing Detection & Intervention Conference
March 15-17, 2026 • Jacksonville, FL
3/11/2025 | 3:00 PM - 3:30 PM | Leveraging Technology to Enhance Professional Collaboration and Family Support through the Georgia’s DHH Resource Database | 302
Leveraging Technology to Enhance Professional Collaboration and Family Support through the Georgia’s DHH Resource Database
Georgia’s DHH Resource Database is an innovative tool designed to support professionals working with deaf and hard of hearing (DHH) children across Georgia. Built using Microsoft 365, it serves two core functions: fostering professional collaboration and helping families find the right resources.
For professionals, the database offers a searchable map using Microsoft Power BI. The map allows users to find and connect with others by filtering on location, role in Georgia’s birth-to-literacy pathway, and available services, such as audiology or sign language instruction. This enhances statewide collaboration and resource sharing. Additionally, the DHH Newsletter, distributed via the database, keeps professionals updated on training opportunities, consortiums, job postings, meetups, and other important news.
For families, the database plays a crucial role in locating language and literacy resources tailored to their needs. Families can search for professionals offering early screening, intervention, or school services, making it easier to access the exact services their child requires for language and literacy development.
In this session, attendees will learn how to create a similar searchable map for their state using Microsoft 365 tools like Forms, SharePoint, and Power BI. By the end, participants will be equipped with practical steps to build a connected network that benefits both DHH professionals and the families they serve.
- The participant will be able to create a searchable map of resources using Microsoft Power BI.
- The participant will be able to use the map to help families find language and literacy resources specific to their needs.
- The participant will be able to outline the steps for setting up a DHH Newsletter using Microsoft 365.
Presentation:
3545975_18092TraciPenland.pdf
Handouts:
Handout is not Available
Transcripts:
CART transcripts are NOT YET available, but will be posted shortly after the conference
Presenters/Authors
Traci Penland
(Primary Presenter), Georgia Department of Education, traci.penland@doe.k12.ga.us;
Based in Atlanta, Georgia, I am dedicated to advancing literacy for deaf and hard of hearing children through my role at the Georgia Department of Education. My journey into education followed a successful twenty-year career in corporate finance, underpinned by a degree in Finance. My commitment to supporting families with hearing loss led me to work at Georgia Hands & Voices as an educational advocate, where I helped parents navigate their children’s needs. Currently, I am pursuing a Master’s in Applied Linguistics at Georgia State University. As a mother of three, including two children born with hearing loss, I am passionate about improving educational resources and outcomes for families like mine.
ASHA DISCLOSURE:
Financial -
No relevant financial relationship exists.
Nonfinancial -
No relevant nonfinancial relationship exists.
AAA DISCLOSURE:
Financial -
No relevant financial relationship exists.
Nonfinancial -
No relevant nonfinancial relationship exists.