Assistive Technology

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) provides for assistive technology (AT) in the educational setting. An AT device means any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially or off the shelf, modified, or customized that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of children with disabilities. AT services are those that directly assist a child with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an AT device.

Assistive Technology Services include:

• The evaluation of the needs of a child with a disability, including a functional evaluation of the child.
• Assisting in the purchasing, leasing, or otherwise providing for the acquisition of AT devices for children with disabilities.
• Selecting, designing, fitting, customizing, adapting, applying, maintaining, repairing or replacing AT devices.
• Coordinating and using other therapies, intervention, or services with AT devices, such as those associated with existing education rehabilitation plans and programs.
• Training or technical assistance for a child with disabilities, or, if appropriate, that child’s family.
• Training or technical assistance for professionals or other individuals who provide services to or are otherwise substantially involved in the major life functions of individuals with disabilities.

Who Would Benefit From AT Services?

• Students who cannot independently access the school environment and/or curriculum.
• Students who need accommodations/technology for integration into the classroom setting.

What Services are Available through the BOCES AT Department?

• Evaluation of a student, within his/her educational environment to determine AT needs.
• Assistance in choosing, designing, customizing, and troubleshooting appropriate AT equipment.
• Provision of resources to acquire equipment when needed.
• Education and training to the student, his/her family, and school staff as to the use of AT devices and equipment.
• Provision of consultant services to school districts that may include offering suggestions for AT use in the school and classrooms.

Who are the Members of the BOCES Regional AT Teams?

The BOCES AT team provides services throughout St. Lawrence County. Team members may include special education teachers, speech therapists, occupational therapists and physical therapists.

How Do I Initiate a Referral?

The CSE Chairperson will forward the completed packet to the Canton BOCES office for assignment to the BOCES evaluators.

• Complete a BOCES Student Technology Consultation Referral Form.
• Complete a BOCES Request for Evaluation of Related Service Form.

Both forms can be obtained through the local CSE office.

Send both completed forms to the district CSE office for authorization from the CSE Chairperson.