What is Assistive Technology in special education?

Assistive Technology (AT) in special education refers to any devices or services that are necessary for a child to benefit from special education or related services or to enable the child to be educated in the least restrictive environment.

Some examples of AT devices are (but not limited to):

· Wheelchairs

· Communication devices

· Transportation equipment (adapted buses, lifts, ramps)

· Computers, laptops, computer assistance, software, hardware, scanners

· Auditory training equipment, hearing aids

· Calculators, tape recorders

· Eyeglasses

· Pencil grips, modified utensils

· Pulmonary Nebulizers

How can students get AT through the school?

The need for AT devices should be discussed at the IEP meeting and included in the plan. Students in private schools or home-school programs may also be eligible for AT devices.

· Make a request in writing to the school for the AT device and include documentation of the student's need.

· Schools can ask parents to seek Medicaid or private insurance funding but not if it will result in a cost to the parents (such as a deductible, lifetime limit on services or increase in premiums, or if the parent must make co-payments to Medicaid related to the cost incurred).

· The school should conduct a comprehensive evaluation of the student's need for the device, at no cost to the parent. If the parents disagree with the school's finding, they can obtain an independent evaluation. The school is usually responsible for the cost of the independent evaluation. (34 CFR §300.503)

· AT devices purchased by the school belong to the school.

· Students may take AT devices owned by the school

home to complete homework or to practice functional skills. The devices may also be used in after-