Description
Published: September 29, 2025.
Length: 60-Minutes
The current landscape in education is uncovering gaps and inconsistencies in staff knowledge, academic instruction and implementation for students with complex communication needs. An increase in the number of students identified as needing AAC and easier access to more affordable technologies, coupled with greater curricular expectations, is requiring a shift in the typical mindset of how to best support these teams and the students they serve.
The need to build capacity while supporting students with complex communication needs is critical. SLP’s & AAC teams must deepen and expand their knowledge base in AAC implementation. Having the knowledge in the hands of one “expert” is not sustainable. To ensure significant impact, we must embrace a capacity building model. What tools and strategies will shift the current “expert” mindset?
Examples of how multiple district level teams embraced a capacity building model will be shared. Participants will consider their current state, explore the shifts they can make and determine their next steps.
As a result of this activity, participants will be able to:
-
List 3 keys to a capacity building model.
-
Describe 2 considerations in determining current state.
-
Describe at least 3 steps in the transfer process.
Marlene Cummings, M.A., CCC-SLP is an Augmentative/Alternative Communication Consultant. She specializes in designing innovative implementation systems utilizing cutting edge professional learning frameworks and dynamic service delivery models to build capacity and sustainability among teams and organizations. Marlene’s past classroom experience drives her exploration and use of universal AAC supports and strategically chosen implementation strategies.
