Special Education
Technology Center
Inclusive Insights & Access Tips
Issue 6 | Mar 2024
Key Guidance on Assistive Technology Myths and Facts
In January, the Office of Special Education Programs and the
Office of Education Technology issued important guidance on
Assistive Technology (AT) devices and services through a
Dear Colleague Letter and a document addressing “Myths
and Facts Surrounding AT Devices and Services.” These
resources aim to benefit a diverse audience, including
parents, early service providers, special educators, general
educators, related service providers, school and district
administrators, technology specialists and directors, as well
as employees at state lead agencies and educational agencies. The purpose of these documents is to enhance comprehension of AT requirements, dispel prevalent myths associated with AT, and furnish examples illustrating the use of AT devices and services.
To provide further insight, SETC created explanatory videos including: Myth and Fact #5 regarding how children acquire proficiency using AT devices, and Myth and Fact #8 concerning state testing. (For further reference on state testing, watch 2024 Updates on Accommodations and Language Supports and this Quick Demo of ALS, Text-to-Speech, and Word Prediction on WA State Testing.) Washington State, recognized for its leadership in AT, is actively supporting educators and students by challenging the myths featured in this recent guidance. Discover notable highlights of the ongoing initiatives and resources available in Washington State below.
Inclusive Reading Options
Looking for technical assistance and support? The Special Education Technology Center (SETC) provides Technical Assistance focused on AT and AAC devices and services, as well as processes to build the capacity of IEP teams to consider, assess, and implement AT. Also, WA State School for the Blind (WSSB) Outreach Access Services provides TA specific to AT required for low vision or blind learners to access and express learning.Statewide AT Lending Libraries
Washington State has two libraries specifically to support technology trials with students and educator professional development. The University of WA hosts the WA Assistive Technology Act Program’s Device Lending Library, and Central WA University hosts the Special Education Technology AT Lending Library. In addition, the Ogden Resource Center supports and advocates for the educational needs of students who are blind or low vision.District
Spotlight
The Burlington-Edison School District
champions inclusivity by providing
accessible technology to ALL students.
This commitment to accessibility not only
supports those with specific requirements,
but also enhances the educational
experience for everyone. In this 2-minute
video clip, Katie Dorr, from the Educational
Technology and Innovation & Teaching and
Learning department, explains how they
make curriculum material accessible. New & Notable
upcoming webinars:
03/05: Clicker: Alternative Access Tips and Options
03/07: Inclusive Learning Chatter: Representation: Options for Students to Access Instruction
03/12: ATIA 2024 Recap: Connect. Discover. Inspire
03/13: AT Chatter: District-Level Planning for Improving AT Consideration within IEPs
03/18: Supporting Students with Dysgraphia: Identifying Challenges and Finding the Right Tool
03/28: AT Chatter – Inclusive Tips for Early Childhood: Expanding Communication
Comprehensive Literacy for All “Book Nook”: This month’s featured book is “We are in a Book”!