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Assistive Technology
Assistive technology helps to ensure a free and appropriate public education (FAPE) for students receiving special education services by allowing access to the general education curriculum and settings, providing opportunities for active participation with same-aged peers, and facilitating progress toward their educational goals. In addition, AT can significantly impact independence, self-expression, self-esteem, and overall quality of life.
A student's IEP team may consider assistive technology equipment and/or services to support the student's needs within their educational setting.
Assistive Technology Equipment/Device
An assistive technology device is defined as "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 the functional capabilities of a child with a disability. The term does not include a medical device that is surgically implanted or the replacement of that device" [20 USCS §140(1) (2)34 C.F.R. 300.5].
Assistive Technology Service
"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. The term includes:
- The evaluation of the needs of a child with a disability, including a functional evaluation of the child in the child's customary environment;
- Purchasing, leasing, or otherwise providing for the acquisition of assistive technology devices by children with disabilities;
- Selecting, designing, fitting, customizing, adapting, applying, maintaining, repairing, or replacing assistive technology devices;
- Coordinating and using other therapies, interventions, or services with assistive technology devices, such as those associated with existing education and rehabilitation plans and programs;
- Training or technical assistance for a child with disability or, if appropriate, that child's family; and
- Training or technical assistance for professionals (including individuals providing education or rehabilitation services), employers, or other individuals who provide services to employ or are otherwise substantially involved in the major life functions of that child. 34 CFR §300.6
Assistive Technology (AT) provides consultative services to IEP teams in determining if assistive technology is needed to support a student in the educational setting. Areas of consideration may include: communication, written language, computer and environmental access.
Deer Valley is proud to offer and provide a variety of Assistive Technology devices for its students. We currently maintain a library of equipment with over 1000 items to meet the AT needs of its students.
Assistive Technology and Motor Clerk: (623) 445-3957
Resources
AzTAP Lending Library - Devices can be borrowed by persons with disabilities, family members, service providers, etc. for two weeks at a time. Devices may be picked up from the AzTAP office or can be shipped/returned at no cost to the borrower.
Arizona Department of Education - Assistive Technology FAQs