Assistive Technology (AT) is any item, piece of equipment, software program, or product system that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of persons with disabilities.
Assistive Technology supports are available to all learners, regardless of age. These supports can increase learner access and engagement with curricular materials, instruction and assessment. Assistive technology includes devices and/or services that enable children with disabilities to participate more fully in various aspects of life (home, school, and community) and helps them access their right to a “free, appropriate, public education” (FAPE) in the “least restrictive environment” (LRE). Each Area Education Agency has personnel to help guide and support the selection and acquisition of assistive technology needs for learners. AEAs have an assistive technology library with various items available for school teams to trial.
Kate Besch and Sara Koenecke are the Prairie Lakes AEA Assistive Technology Coordinators. Here is the map that outlines the districts that each serves.
Review & Order Assistive Technology
Prairie Lakes AEA has a variety of augmentative, adapted, and accessible equipment and devices that are available to trial. We also have a variety of apps for AAC, writing, and more. Educators will be able to trial these devices, equipment, and apps for six weeks to determine if it is a good fit for your student needs.
View the Catalog If there is something that you would like to test/trial, send a request to the AT Team.
Request Assistance
Educators – please take a few minutes to complete this form that’s designed to gather background information needed to serve the student and you. If you are a parent who has concerns about your child’s accessibility needs, visit our Getting Started With Special Education page.
Important contacts
Staff Directory
Sara Koenecke
Special Education Consultant/Assistive Technology Coordinator
515-705-7121 Email Sara Koenecke