Procedures
MPS AT Department
Technology is always evolving, and consideration for assistive technology supports should be equally as dynamic. As an IEP team considers assistive technology, decisions should focus on the changing needs of their student(s) with a specific focus on their current environment and functioning. The MPS Assistive Technology Department offers guidance and support for teams during this process using a consultative model versus a single event "assessment" or "evaluation". Specialists within the Assistive Technology Department work closely with site-based IEP teams as they consider appropriate AT accommodations, assist in their implementation across various educational environments, and provide technical support and training for team members as appropriate.
Consideration of AT During the IEP Process
If a student is not making expected progress on IEP goals, or his/her documented disability is hindering access to curricular materials within one or more academic settings, examination of current accommodations is warranted. Refer to the AT/AAC flowchart and AT Consideration - Available Resources links (on the right) as your team considers AT as part of a student's accommodations.
If your team has questions about how to proceed with AT accommodations for a student and would like to receive support from our department, please click on the link to the right called "Assistive Technology Request" and complete and submit the contact form. Someone from our department will contact you right away.
Feel free to contact a department specialist directly with any additional questions regarding AT tools and supports.
Documenting in the IEP
Successful AT/AAC accommodations should be documented in the following sections of a student’s IEP:
• PLAAFP: If an accommodation proves successful, it should be described in specific terms in the student’s PLAAFP, including brand names, access methods, required cues, etc.
• Section E (Special Considerations): check the box “AT Needed” if the technology is not standard within the curriculum. Describe the technology in general terms (i.e., word processor, communication device).
• Goals: AT/AAC use is incorporated as a condition of the goal, NOT the goal itself. Describe the technology in general terms.
• Section H (Supplementary Aids): AT/AAC accommodations should be included, in general terms, in the list of general ed. classroom accommodations as appropriate.
• Section J (Testing): AT/AAC accommodations should be included, in general terms, in the list of testing accommodations as appropriate.
Testing Accommodations
Accommodations are practices and procedures that change presentation, response, setting, and/or timing/scheduling of assessments and are intended to provide equitable access during instruction and assessments for students with disabilities (i.e., students with Individualized Education Programs [IEP] or 504 plans).
Information regarding accommodations for state testing is available on the Arizona Department of Education Website. A direct link has been provided to the right to information related to accessibility and accommodations for state testing.