Assistive Technology

Welcome to the Assistive Technology (AT) web pages. The purpose of this web site is to deliver information to you about Assistive Technology used in Averill Park. You will find links to help you learn about  equipment currently being used by staff and  students in our school district. 

NOTE:   This site will be under continuous development and it is important to note that it is certainly not all inclusive of possibilities but rather a starting point for all of our creative minds and our ability to “think outside of the box”.  

What is Assistive Technology?

The Federal Law known as public law 108-446, entitled the ‘Improvement Act of 2004’ or the ‘Individuals with Disabilities Education Act’ (IDEA) defines an assistive technology device 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.”

IDEA defines assistive technology services as “…any service that directly assists an individual with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device.”

Assistive Technology is a Continuum of choices  

No AT supports >low tech supports > mid tech supports > high tech supports  

Assistive Technology reviews all of the options for tasks and considers a variety of tools that best meet a students goal toward learning and independence.