Increasing numbers of students need extra support to communicate and participate in their classrooms, often in the form of augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). In this course for special education teachers, participants will explore the basics of AAC - from Big Macks to Tobii Dynavox eye gaze devices, TouchChat to LAMP, the AAC trial and evaluation process, how to navigate popular AAC systems, and how to implement and support AAC in the classroom for students of all ages.
Participants will be able to:
- Identify at least 5 AAC tools ranging from light-tech to mid-tech, to high-tech
- Identify the organization system and basic navigation of 3 popular AAC applications
- Identify three ways AAC can be implemented/supported in the classroom -Understand and implement basic AAC modeling principles
- Identify the steps of the NWRESD AAC trial process and who the points of contact are for AAC trials
Instructor:
Sam Stidham, M.S., CCC-SLP is an augmentative/alternative communication specialist speech-language pathologist at Northwest Regional ESD serving students from kindergarten through transition in Columbia, Clatsop, and Washington Counties. She is a passionate advocate for making communication accessible to all students, with a particular interest in supporting children with complex bodies in accessing communication through eye gaze, switches, or other alternative means. Communication is what makes us human - every student has something to say, and Sam’s goal is to support students in saying whatever they want, however they want, whenever they want, to whomever they want.
Date: Monday, April 14, 2025
Time: 8:30 am - 12:00 pm
Location: Knappa High School (Astoria)
Who Should Attend:
Special Education Teachers, Case Managers, 504 Plan Case Managers, Educational Assistants, Support Staff, or anyone wanting to learn more about how to support students using AAC in the school setting.
*This event is reserved for school staff working in Columbia, Clatsop, Tillamook, & Washington Counties*
Accommodations:
We strive to make our events accessible and inclusive to participants from all backgrounds and abilities. All virtual sessions will have automated closed captioning available. If you think you will need additional accommodations, such as an interpreter, please contact Sabine Eaton at seaton@nwresd.k12.or.us or 503-614-1351. At least two weeks advance notice will help us to provide seamless access.
About Northwest Regional Education Service District:
Northwest Regional ESD is the largest of Oregon’s 19 education service districts. We serve students, educators, childcare providers, and families living in Clatsop, Columbia, Tillamook, and Washington counties. Our staff members work collaboratively with school districts and other educational partners to deliver quality, cost-effective programs and services including special education, technology, professional development, school improvement, and operational support. Our vision is that every student is educated, equipped, and inspired to achieve their full potential and enrich their communities. Learn more at nwresd.org.
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