Facts about AT Accommodations in Education

AT Tools can be low tech to high tech.
AT is compensatory by nature but may have remedial effects.
AT isn’t cheating! (I'm wearing glasses, am I cheating?)

AT recommendations should be connected to IEP Goals.

AT is not an IEP goal itself, it’s a means to achieving a goal.
If it’s in an IEP you must provide it, not just offer it. It’s illegal if you don’t!
Students may not be able to advocate for themselves.
It removes barriers and increases student independence.
It gives learners energy to focus on content and creativity.
Students won’t know what tools work for them if they aren’t using them.
AT tools prepare students for life after LPS.
If MCAS accommodations are listed they must be used on a regular basis.
AT Evaluations use the SETT Framework as a guide.

Click here for more information about SETT and see info below

SETT is an acronym for: Student, Environment, Tasks, Tools

S = Student

Student strengths/weakness
Student profile/interests
Areas of concern

E = Environment

Room arrangement
Materials, supports, equipment
Teacher style/structure

T = Tasks

What specific tasks is the student struggling with?
What IEP goals & objectives is the student not making effective progress in?

T = Tools

Tools already being used
Low to high tech tools available
Tools to be trialed

YouTube video compliments of R. Kuberry, ATS, and A. Golding AACS, Lexington, MA

The SETT Framework keeps teams focused on: the individual student, their environment, and the tasks they need to complete, prior to focusing on specific tools. It is an ongoing process and may be revisited several times as the needs of the student, their environment, the tasks, and/or the tools change. To learn more about the SETT Framework, visit:

Joy Zabala’s website.