Educators
Assistive Technology for Students with Disabilities
Educators play an important role in identifying a student’s potential need for AT. Learn more about how technology can help students with disabilities.
Why AT Works
Using AT isn’t cheating, and it’s not a crutch. Get the facts about why AT works and how it can help students reach their highest potential.
Documenting AT in the IEP
See step-by-step guidance on documenting AT needs in the IEP to protect students and fulfill all legal requirements.
Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
Learn the 3 principles of UDL, and how it integrates with AT.
NEAT Champions Program
Ready to up your AT game? Participate in NEAT’s exclusive Champions Program and build your AT and AAC capacities.
FAQs
What is an assistive technology service?
An AT service is any service that directly assists a child with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device. This can include services such as evaluations, purchase, maintenance or adaptation of AT devices, and training.
My child has been recommended an AT device(s) in an IEP. Where can I find resources to help me understand how to use this tool(s)?
Start with your child’s PPT or other school team involved with the recommendation – they should be able to help. If you know the name of the tool, you can also try searching their website for tutorials, videos, and guides about the product.
Who is responsible for paying for my child’s AT device?
If AT is recommended in a student’s IEP or 504 plan, the school district will need to pay for and provide it. This includes any equipment, service, or programs associated with the AT. If AT is not included in your child’s IEP or 504 plan, you may apply for funding through grants, insurance, or other means. Contact your school district for more information.
If the school system purchases AT for my child, is it mine?
AT purchased by the school system belongs to the school. However, if the school finds it necessary to be used at home, the AT can be borrowed for use at home.
My child is moving to a new school. Can we keep the same AT device?
If the device is part of your child’s IEP, yes. However, it may not be the exact same device. It is possible that a new — but comparable — device will be provided at the next school.
What happens if my child’s AT device breaks?
If an AT device (acquired through an IEP) is broken at school, the school system will replace it. However, if a device is broken at home, the student’s family may be responsible for paying for a replacement.
My child is graduating high school soon. What will be done to make sure of his/her future success?
CT statutes allow school districts, regional educational service centers, the Department of Education, and all other state and local governmental education agencies to loan, lease, or transfer an assistive device to the student (or the student’s family). Plus, AT is required to be part of a graduating student’s transition assessments. However, parents’ advocacy on behalf of the graduating student is essential.
Related AT Topics
Why AT Is Important
For students with a disability, assistive technology can be the key that unlocks the door to their future, not only in the classroom but as they transition into adulthood as well.
What Is AT?
Learn the basics about assistive technology and the differences between no-tech, mid-tech, and high-tech AT.
Your Rights and AT
If your child has a disability, it’s important to understand the rights they have as a student, including their right to access assistive technology.