Assistive Technology

The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and New York State Part 200 Regulations define AT as both a device and a service:

• Assistive technology device is 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 functional capabilities of a child with a disability.
• Assistive technology service is any service that directly assists a child with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device.

Assistive Technology Services and Equipment
Assistive Technology equipment and services are provided by the Victor Central School District based on the individual need of the student.   An assistive technology evaluation is conducted to determine whether an educational necessity of assistive technology equipment or services exists. Educational necessity is determined by the student’s ability to meet district goals, common core standards and IEP goals with and without the use of assistive technology.

Students who have been evaluated and who have been determined to require tools or services as educationally necessary will be provided such by the district.  Victor Central School District cannot be responsible for personal devices sent into school, nor can educational staff be requested to implement programming other than what is required and appropriate based on evaluation and the IEP.

Examples of Educational Necessity as it relates to Assistive Technology

• A tool that enables a student to access grade level coursework, who could not access it otherwise
• A tool that provides a student the ability to complete necessary work independently
• A system for augmentative or alternative communication required for the student’s academic success

Examples of Assistive Technology uses that are NOT educationally necessary

• A tool that is utilized as a reward or reinforcement for target behavior
• A personal device that a student prefers over district tools, curriculum or text
• A tool intended to replace district curriculum, tools or strategies