Date: 02/11/2025 Time: 3:30-4:30 Location: internet Type: Webinar
Description
Join this monthly communication workgroup, where we bring together a diverse expertise, including Teachers of Blind and Low Vision Learners (TVIs), Occupational Therapists (OTs), Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs), and Assistive Technology Specialists. Our focus is on exploring the multifaceted world of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools for blind and/or low vision learners, encompassing both no-tech, low-tech, and high-tech options.
Each session kicks off with a research update and a compelling student story, grounding our discussions in real-world experiences and the latest insights from the field. Our primary goal is to delve into how various communication tools and strategies, including AAC devices, are acquired and implemented to support students with multiple needs, specifically those students with low vision, cortical vision impairment and blindness. Our discussions will be enriched by the diverse perspectives of TVIs, OTs, and SLPs, each bringing their unique insights and expertise to the table.
Through the lens of multidisciplinary collaboration, we’ll tackle topics such as effective collaborative assessment techniques, procurement considerations, person-centered AAC interventions, and implementation across learning environments to provide equitable support for low vision and blind learners. Together, we’ll explore best practices, share valuable strategies, and address challenges encountered in the assessment, customization, and implementation of AAC solutions. Join the discussion and help pave the way for transformative collaboration around communication solutions that enable all learners to thrive in the classroom and beyond.
February 11 – Tactile Symbols as AAC
Speaker: Angela Powell, TBLVL, Outreach Consultant
Delve into the use of tactile symbols as effective AAC tools for students with visual impairments. This session will explore the implementation, and customization of tactile communication systems to enhance student participation and understanding. Participants will have the opportunity for discussion of the topic within breakout rooms and set actionable goals for implementing ideas and tools discussed as applicable to their students.
Learning Objectives
- Facilitate Collaborative Exploration: To create conditions that support partnerships and shared responsibility for learning by encouraging active collaboration among professionals to explore a range of AAC options and strategies suitable for diverse learners.
- Enhance Assessment and Integration Skills: Provide practical guidance, evidence-based practices, and resources to improve professionals’ ability to assess, procure, and integrate AAC technologies effectively within inclusive learning environments.
- Empower Inclusive Practice: Support professionals in collaboratively developing person-centered AAC interventions that promote inclusivity, participation, and communication for all students across learning environments and within the community.
Dates: 10/8, 11/12, 12/10, 1/14, 2/11, 3/11, 4/8, 5/13
Presenters
Kristin Leslie, ATP, MAT, OTR/L
Kristin Leslie is the Director of the Special Education Technology Center (SETC), a statewide program supporting educators and parents of special education students, ages 3 to 22, in Washington State. With over 26 years of experience as an occupational therapist, Kristin has presented statewide and nationally on topics such as alternative access to AAC, built-in accessibility features, Accessible Educational Material, and Universal Design for Learning. In her current role, she collaborates with school districts to integrate assistive technology, artificial intelligence, and culturally responsive practices within a Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) framework. Under her leadership, SETC addresses systemic barriers to learning, focusing on students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and those from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. As she partners with state and national leaders to transform education, Kristin values creativity and flexibility, recognizing that there are multiple pathways to fostering authentically inclusive learning environments.
Jessica Chandler
Mary “Jessica” Chandler is the current Associate Director of Outreach, Birth to Five at the Washington State School for the Blind and the Washington State Coordinator of Early Supports for Infants and Toddlers who are Blind or have Low Vision (B/LV) where she is fortunate to companion families during the earliest stages of their journey to support and empower their B/LV children.
Angela Powell
Angela Powell is the Outreach Consultant for Kentucky School for the Blind serving the Green River Region-South Central area in Kentucky, USA. This area includes 27 counties and 34 school districts. Her main focus is to provide Teachers of Students with Low Vision/Blindness and students with resources, technology, opportunities in the Expanded Core Curriculum, trainings, coaching, and any other needs/assistance that help professionals and students be successful. She absolutely loves her job!
She is a certified Teacher of the Visually Impaired (West Virginia University), of Learning and Behavioral Disabilities (Indiana University), and has a Rank 1 in Educational Leadership/Administration (Campbellsville University). She started her career as a Special Education Teacher and then served as a TVI for several years before becoming an Outreach Consultant.
Contact
Email Sue Wright at the SETC office
Zoom Link
Clock hours for this webinar and others in the series are available from ESD105 for a small fee. The following Professional Development Enroller link provides more information about clock hours: https://www.pdenroller.org/cwu/catalog/179955