More Than a Checkbox: Making Assistive Technology Matter in the IEP

Presenter(s)

Event Details

Topic:

assessment & IEPs

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
physical therapist
special educator
speech language pathologist
teacher of the visually impaired
vision impairment specialist

Professional Development Credits

IACET CEUs:

.01 CEU

ACVREP CEs:

1 CE

Presentation Length: 1 hour

Location:

Atrium 3

Description:

This session will guide participants through the process of meaningfully incorporating assistive technology (AT) and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) into the IEP, ensuring that students who need these supports receive them effectively. Attendees will begin by reviewing IDEA requirements and federal guidance related to AT services. Next, the presenter will explore how to align legal obligations with best practices using real-world IEP examples. Participants will analyze sample IEP language, service delivery models, and documentation strategies to support communication access for students with complex needs. Attendees will leave with practical tools to strengthen AT consideration and implementation, avoid vague or ineffective IEP goals, and ensure AT and AAC are integrated as essential components of a student’s right to a Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE).

Learning Outcomes:

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

• Iidentify what the law actually requires when it comes to considering and providing assistive technology and AAC in the IEP process—moving beyond the checkbox to real implementation.

• Discuss practical, evidence-based strategies for selecting, delivering, and monitoring assistive technology and AAC services that truly support student access and participation.

• Create clear, actionable IEPs that include meaningful AT and AAC supports while staying aligned with legal responsibilities.

Disclosures:

Ms. McGinley is being paid as an Educational Consultant for Sereni Law Group, LLC
Ms. Bailey-Orr is employed full time by Appoquinimink SD. Employed as Adjunct Clinical Faculty, University of Delaware. Private Practitioner- Limitlessspeechandlanguage.com