Arizona Technology Access Program (AzTAP)

LIBRARY


Funding for Assistive Technology in Special Education
(Exceptional Student Services)

Since 1975, the federal government has mandated a “free and appropriate public education” (FAPE) for all children with disabilities including those children whose disabilities are multiple and severe. The law governing this is the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA, P.L. 101-476), which formerly was known as the Education Of All Handicapped Children’s Act (P.L. 94-142). This law also mandates that a child with a disability be educated with children without disabilities to the maximum extent appropriate. In addition, the law states that removal from an educational environment occur only when FAPE cannot be achieved despite the use of supplementary aids and services. Assistive technology devices and services fall within the definition of supplementary aids and services.

Eligibility

IDEA seeks to open the schoolhouse door to all children ages 3-21 who have disabilities. Children with disabilities who are under age three may be eligible for Early Child Intervention/Part H services. A student that qualifies for special education services must have been evaluated, have a specific qualifying disability, and need special education and related services. Initial eligibility for services is determined by a multidisciplinary team convened by the school district. If eligibility is determined, a multidisciplinary team meets for the purpose of drafting an Individualized Education Plan (IEP). This team includes the parents, specialists, friends and/or advocates of the parent’s choice, the classroom teacher, the student, the special education teacher, and a representative of the school district who is qualified to provide and supervise the provision of special education.

Coverage

IDEA contains a very broad definition of assistive technology devices and services. The law requires that an assessment of the individual student’s educational needs, as well as appropriate training for any devices or services that are needed must be provided by the school. This is done through the development of an IEP (with parent and student input). If the IEP team determines that a student requires an assistive technology device or service to receive a free and appropriate education, then the device must be provided by the local education agency (local school district). The device and/or service must be educationally relevant, improve functioning in the school or home environment, allow the student greater inclusion in educational activities, and must be specifically included in the student’s final IEP.

Contacts

  • Special Education Teacher, local school district, or the Arizona Department of Education, Exceptional Student Services
    • 1535 W. Jefferson Street
      Phoenix, Arizona 85007
      Voice: (602) 542-4831
      TTY:   (602) 542-1410