2026 1366

Presenter(s)

Event Details

Topic:

augmentative and alternative communication (AAC)

Format:

lecture

Subject Level:

intermediate

Age Span:

preschool
kindergarten - grade 6
grades 7-12

Target Audience:

AT specialist
autism specialist
consultant
educator
family member / caregiver
K-12 administration
occupational therapist
paraprofessional
special educator
speech language pathologist

Professional Development Credits

IACET CEUs:

0.01

ACVREP CEs:

1

Presentation Length: 1 hour

Date and Time (Central Daylight Time):

  • October 22, 2026
  • 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM

Location:

Bloomington

Description:

Participants will examine how AAC can shift from an individual support to a shared, schoolwide practice that strengthens communication and belonging. The session will begin by examining common barriers that limit consistent AAC implementation. Attendees will then engage with a practical framework for building communication-rich environments through coaching, peer involvement, and shared responsibility. Real classroom examples and visuals will illustrate how AAC can be embedded across routines and settings. Participants will be introduced to a “Growing a Communication-Rich School Culture” team planning document and shown how it can guide teams in identifying priorities, aligning roles, and sustaining implementation over time. Participants will leave with actionable strategies and a clear process for building inclusive, communication-rich schools.

Learning Outcomes:

As a result of this activity, participants will be able to:

• Analyze three common barriers to schoolwide AAC implementation and determine one corresponding systems-level solution for each barrier.

• Design one peer-supported AAC strategy (e.g., structured peer modeling, buddy system, or classroom routine) that increases communication opportunities and social participation for AAC users within a classroom setting.

• Use a team-based AAC planning document to identify one priority goal, assign team roles, and outline next steps for implementation within a school setting.

Disclosures:

Sarah is employed by and receives salary from Central Washington University (SETC).
I am employed by and receive salary from Central Washington University (SETC) and Western Washington University.