Children with disabilities sometimes need and are entitled to special equipment and services to ensure that they have access to a free and appropriate education (FAPE). Assistive technology includes both devices and services. As defined in IDEA:
- An assistive technology device means 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. (34 CFR 300.5)
An assistive technology service means any service that directly assists a child with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device. (34 CFR 300.6)During the IEP process, assistive technology must be considered for every child and then provided by districts if required in a child's IEP to access a free and appropriate public education (FAPE). TMCSEA offers Assistive Technology Consultation services to member districts. The TMCSEA AT Consultation procedures are as follows:
- TMCSEA Request for Service form is completed by the member district
- Up to 3 consultation visits at no charge to member districts including: student observation; teacher/student/parent interview; student assessment; trials; data collection; professional development and identified resources as applicable
