Assistive Technology

Assistive technology enables children and youth with disabilities to participate more fully in all aspects of life and helps them to access their right to a "free, appropriate public education" (FAPE) in the "least restrictive environment" (LRE). Although assistive technology is a "tool" or set of "tools" that assists students to benefit from the general education curriculum, it is not solely devices or services. It may also take the form of adaptations or modifications. Because assistive technology takes many different forms, it looks different from student to student. In fact, the provision of assistive technology must be individualized for each student. (from "Assistive Technology: Creating a Pathway")

With this in mind, the assistive technology staff at Grant Wood AEA provide services in the following areas:

• specialized consultation to families and IEP/IFSP teams
• support to families and IEP/IFSP teams
• information resources to families and educators
• information and referral
• professional development opportunities to families and IEP/IFSP teams
• assistive technology lending library
• liaison with AEAs, the Iowa Department of Education and the Center for Disabilities and Development.

For information, contact:

Andy Crozier Coordinator of Digital Learning Technology (319) 399-6866
Jane Faley Smith Assistive Technologist (319) 399-6555, vm 6244		Julie Freed Speech-Language Pathologist (319) 399-6555, vm 6669