The concept behind Build a Lesson is the logical extension of an innovative series of interactive PowerPoint lessons created and distributed by Robin Fabiano over the last few years.   These PowerPoint presentations each presented a quick lesson using a combination of visuals and audio.  Build a Lesson begins with the same approach, and adds the universal accessibility of the internet plus the ability to generate audio from written text automatically.

Build a Lesson is the result of a collaboration between a Robin Fabiano, special educator in Newton Massachusetts and Jeff Foster, a parent of a child with autism. Jeff is the Vice President of Development at Symmetric Technologies, Inc., a software consulting and development firm.  The software developers at Symmetric Technologies, Inc. created the Build a Lesson service.

		Robin Fabiano has been an Inclusion Facilitator for the Newton Public Schools, in Newton, Massachusetts since 1996. In this role, Robin educates students with intensive special needs within the general education setting by creating individualized educational plans, behavior support plans and consulting with staff to modify curriculum appropriately. Robin hold a Master degree in Intensive Special Needs from the University of Arizona. Robin passed her National Teaching boards, in 2003, which is one of the highest private certification standards for educators. In, 2006, she completed a CAGS. in Assistive Technology from Simmons College. As of November 2008, Robin has moved into the role as Co-Director of Elementary Student Services with the Newton Public Schools. In addition to her work as an educator, Robin consults with neighboring school districts to ensure best teaching practices in inclusive settings. She acts as a cooperating teacher for student teachers from Boston University, Boston College and Simmons College. Finally, Robin has presented her educational strategies and philosophy regarding inclusion at national and local conferences and workshops. She is a dedicated advocate for the successful and supported inclusion of students with special needs in the general educational setting.
		Jeff Foster has worked in technology for 20 years and has been the parent of a special needs child for the last 10 years.  Jeff is a vice president at Symmetric Technologies, Inc.  Symmetric Technologies has funded the development of Build a Lesson. Working on Build a Lesson has been particularly rewarding for Jeff because it has given him a chance to combine his technology skills with a chance to address the educational needs of his child. Jeff also created VideoPlaylist.org, a free video playlist website designed to be a leisure-time activity for disabled children.  VideoPlaylist.org is being used by parents, educators and therapists (over 1500 video playlists have been created thus far).