Assistive Technology

Assistive Technology is defined as both a “device” and a “service.”

Assistive Technology Device: The term assistive technology device means “any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of a child with a disability.” (34 C.F.R. §300.5)

Assistive Technology Service: The term assistive technology service means any service that directly assists a child with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device.

AT spans a broad range from low tech to high tech. Generally, the lowest tech solution that meets the need is preferable. Examples of low tech solutions include items like pencil grips and velcro fasteners. High tech solutions include devices such as electronic communication devices or a reading pen.

Federal and state law require that assistive technology be considered for all children with an Individualized Education Program.  In special education AT helps to LEVEL THE PLAYING FIELD!

Assistive Technology Team

Katie Sweney, OT
218-454-5506
[email protected]

Kirsten Morton-Aldous, Teacher for the Physically Impaired
218-454-5508
[email protected]

Simon Technology Center https://www.pacer.org/stc/
Simon Technology Center Lending Library https://www.pacer.org/stc/library/
Google Accessibility Products https://www.google.com/accessibility/products-features.html
Minnesota Guide to Assistive Technology https://mn.gov/admin/at/
Bookshare https://www.bookshare.org/cms/