Assistive Technology

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.