AT & the IEP Process

Since 1997 (IDEA) requires that IEP teams must consider AT options for all students when drafting the IEP. According to the 2004 reauthorization of IDEA, assistive technology can be the bridge to enable students with disabilities to participate in the least restrictive environment (LRE). The local educational agency (LEA) is responsible for making sure the AT assessment is done for every student. The AT consideration process gives students the tools that offer success and access to the general curriculum. This process should also be done at each annual review. In addition, the IEP team must consider various forms of assistive technology devices ranging from low to high tech. Ongoing monitoring of student AT use must be implemented as well as provision of training or technical assistance for staff in the use of the AR device. I know to most it may seem like a big pot of special education alphabet soup, however anyone who is serious about being a teacher in special education needs to know about AT and the IEP process.