Trial Device Management FAQs

When will my child get the trial device/system?  Devices must be tagged, labeled, and setup through both the technology services department and the assistive technology department. This process typically takes between 1-3 weeks. 

When will I receive a copy of the AT Consultation/Support Plan?  The AT team member(s) will review the report, compile resources, and send it to your school team, who will provide you with a copy. This typically occurs within 1-2 weeks. 

What is the goal of the device/system trial period?  SSD devices/systems are utilized to support individual education plan (IEP) goals. The goal of the trial period is to determine if the system/tool meets the required needs of your child in helping him/her make progress on his/her IEP goals. At the initial AT consultation/support plan meeting, target goal(s) will be identified for school team members to take data on to determine if the device/system assigned to your child is increasing his/her ability to reach their targeted IEP goals and to overcome identified barriers. 

Can my child take his/her device/system home?  Your child’s success with using the trial devices/systems is determined through data review at a follow-up meeting, which occurs approximately 6-8 weeks following the initial AT consultation/support plan meeting.  For that reason, we do not send devices home during the initial trial period. Home use for a device/system is discussed at the AT consultation follow-up meeting.  If the IEP team decides the device/system is required for communication or homework needs at home, the device/system must be returned to school daily per the child’s AT consultation support plan. Periodically, devices may need to come in for updates or repairs, and a low tech backup system may need to be utilized during these periods. 

Can my child take their device/system home over the summer?  Devices may go home over the summer as determined by the AT team member and IEP team based on several factors such as summer school enrollment, ESY homework requirements, attendance, and your child’s IEP goals. 

What are my responsibilities if my child’s device/system does come home? Devices/systems are managed and supported by SSD, which means personal account information and apps should NOT be placed on your child’s device/system. Devices/systems should only be used by the child for whom it was assigned and for academic/communication purposes. Devices/systems need to be charged nightly and kept in safe locations to prevent damage. If a device/system is damaged, lost, or stolen, please notify the school team immediately to be informed of next steps. 

Does my child get to keep their assigned communication/academic system/device? SSD devices/systems may support your child as long as he/she requires it to meet his/her IEP goals and is enrolled in an SSD building/district. If the child transfers out of the district, the device/system must be returned. The AT team member will discuss funding options to support communication when ready and/or following school graduation.