Whiz Kid: Ryan Maude

Name: Ryan Maude

Grade: First grade

School:

Accomplishment: Ryan has been selected as a winner of the 2011 Technology Achievement Award by Infinitec North, the assistive technology program of the United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Chicago. Ryan will be presented with the honor at an April 28 awards banquet at The Cotillion in Palatine.

Key to Awesomeness: Ryan, who has cerebral palsy, uses an augmentive and alternative communication device and a variety of other assistive technology resources to learn and communicate. He uses an to transfer information from these devices to a computer, which allows him to read and write and work on his assignments by using a joystick to navigate various programs. He also uses this technology to develop friendships by talking to his classmates.

Do you know a local “whiz kid?” We seek suggestions from readers of a local child or teen who has done something amazing. It can be an individual child or teen, youth group, or even a team that has achieved something of merit. Palatine Patch wants to hear about these amazing children and teens and will feature one each Wednesday who has achieved something we think you should know about as our Patch Whiz Kid of the Week. Submit your nomination in the comment box below or email the information to brian.slupski@patch.com. Be sure to include all of the following information:

• Nominator’s Name
• Nominator’s email
• Whiz Kid’s Name
• Whiz Kid’s Age
• Whiz Kid’s School
• Whiz Kid’s Accomplishment
• Whiz Kid’s Key to Awesomeness

If your nominee is selected, we will contact you and request a photo. Questions? Email brian.slupski@patch.com.