Once a student is determined to need assistive technology, the school must provide it. Schools cannot tell parents that they do not have the money in their budget, or require the parent to pay for any portion of the cost. Similarly, schools cannot ask parents to have their health insurance cover the costs of assistive technology. Schools must also provide teachers and students with any training that is necessary to effectively use the assistive technology.
Assistive technology can help students feel more comfortable participating in class, which helps to maintain their overall interest in school. Studies have shown that students who can benefit from assistive technology are more likely to succeed in school and become independent adults. Assistive technology can help students in wide variety of areas, including:
- Handwriting
- Reading
- Mobility
- Seeing
- Spelling
- Math
- Listening
- Self-Care
- Recreation
- Communication
