• Assistive Technology, or AT, is power! It is the power to be independent, to be mobile, to communicate, to work, to learn, and to participate in all areas of life. AT helps persons with disabilities overcome barriers and have a higher quality of life.
• There are two types of Assistive Technology: AT devices and AT services.

• An AT device is a product or system that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functioning of a person with a disability.
• These can include classroom modifications, picture cards, a TTY, software, adapted clothing, hearing aids, wheelchairs, etc.

• An AT service is a service that helps a person with a disability select, get, or use an AT device.
• These can include leases, repairs, training, etc.

• The IEP Team must consider whether your student needs AT. The school must provide AT if your child needs AT in order to receive a Free Appropriate Public Education.
• The IEP Team, including the parents, must be involved in determining what kind of AT is needed.
• You can request an independent evaluation to determine AT needs.
• The school cannot refuse to provide AT because of the cost or because it does not have that device.
• The school can refuse to provide AT that is medical, such as a cochlear implant.
• AT devices must be provided for your child’s use at home if the IEP Team determines that the child needs that AT to continue making progress on IEP goals.

• The NCATP can help you make informed decision about AT. They can also help school staff with their AT questions.
• The NCATP provides free services, including device demonstration, short-term loans of AT devices, information about funding, and access to previously-owned AT devices.
• You can reach the NCATP at (919) 850-2787 or online at www.ncatp.org.

The NC Division of Services for the Deaf and the Hard of Hearing (DSDHH) serves individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf-blind, speech-impaired, their families and the agencies serving them. Click here for the home page of NC DSDHH.