AAC Requests

Each district has a dedicated inventory of AAC iPads available for use.  Most of these devices have the AAC apps Proloquo2Go and/or LAMP Words for Life installed.  Look over the AAC Device section of this website for specific app information.  While these AAC resources are common in DoDEA and often used as a first line intervention, AAC decisions are student centered and may require resources not listed.  

Initial Request for an iPad or AAC App: If your district has an AT-ISS/POC, start by contacting them if an AAC iPad or AAC app is needed.  If your district does not have an AT-ISS/POC, school staff will direct requests to the District SPED-ISS.  District SPED-ISSs will coordinate with HQ SPED to arrange for an AAC iPad trial or transfer of an AAC app license.  Districts may not claim AAC iPads or AAC licenses without coordinating with at AT-ISS/POC or HQ SPED POC.  

• EU East  AAC Request

• EU West AAC Request

• PAC AAC Request 

• Ft. Bragg AAC Request

Transfer Paperwork: iPads are accountable property and therefore need to follow a set transfer procedure.  The AT POC will typically issue a DD1150 that the school must complete.   Ensure school administration and supply POC are aware of the loan.   Typically, the iPads are not added to the school technology inventory.  These are short term AT loans based on unique student needs.

Device Accessories: All iPads come with a charger box, lightning cable and plug adapter (EU only). The person checking out the iPad is responsible for these items. If these items get lost, work with your school administration on how to replace them.

Initial Trial Prior to IEP Meeting (Recommended):  If you are trialing the AAC iPad to collect data prior to an IEP meeting, the CSC will notify the parents of the plan.  Documenting parent consent and the projected trial timeline as a memo to record is recommended.  The trial data (6-9 weeks is typical) should be used to collect data, consider and potentially add the AAC device to the IEP. The team will summarize results of the any AT trials (completed before the IEP meeting) within the IEP minutes, insert the AT into the IEP as appropriate and implement.   See section on AAC Assessments

Getting Started with a Trial:  Teams are encouraged to use the Core Word Starter Set, which is a group of lesson plans to help get started with a beginning communicator.  The  lessons are based on a 20 Core Word Starter Set.  The vocabulary selected covers a variety of parts of speech in order to support production of phrases and simple sentences for students who are ready.   Included in this resource are data collection sheets, objectives, smart charts and a variety of ideas for speaking, reading, and writing.  Data from the Core Word Starter Set can be used with other implementation resources to document the effectiveness of the AAC device trial.  Review additional resources in the AAC Assessment and AAC Implementation section of this website.  

AAC is Considered During the IEP Meeting:  If the AAC device has not been used by the student, or the CSC needs more data, the CSC team will develop a formal AT assessment plan that includes parent permission to assess and standard timelines.  The completed AT assessment will be used to help the CSC reconsider AT options and solutions for the student during a modification meeting.   AT/AAC assessments typically include trial data and a formal written report completed by the CSC team (SLP, LI-MS, PSCD, OT).    See section on AAC Assessments

Extended Student Use (Beyond the Trial):  If the AAC device is required for the student to access FAPE the device MUST be documented within the IEP  as an accommodation and/or modifier for an IEP goal or objective.  List the features of the app and device within the present levels.   AT needs to be listed as a special factor within Aspen.  

Example description of features:

• AAC software that enables: dynamic symbol/language representation of thousands of core and fringe vocabulary, consistent motor planning and synthesized voice output by using a touch screen with direct select. 

If AAC iPads are in short supply and local needs cannot be met with the current iPad inventory, the SPED-ISS will notify HQ-SPED for additional guidance.  A device may be transferred from another location or the school/district may need to follow DoDEA procurement processes to acquire an additional AAC device or app.  While DoDEA can help a family procure an AAC device through private insurance, DoDEA cannot mandate that the family purchase a device.  

Modeling/Staff Devices:  When sufficient AAC iPads and AAC apps are available, devices can be checked out to staff for aided language modeling, staff training and implementation.  These devices are loaned on a space available basis and will be claimed back if there are direct student needs.  

Students who use an electronic device as a communication tool don't just stop communicating at the end of the school day. Students have the ability to take the AAC device home.  See Parent Training Resources

Students can use and take home DoDEA AAC devices over the summer if receiving ESY services. 

The Student/Parent Property Use Agreement needs to be completed for any home use situations. Talk with school administration to determine who at the school will maintain the records. Link to Property Agreement Form