October is Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Awareness Month. All across the Douglas County School System, students are using AAC to express themselves, share their ideas, and connect with others.
AAC helps students communicate and engage with the world through gestures, pictures, and technology. By using communication boards, assistive technology devices, and sign language, AAC provides a powerful way for individuals to communicate their ideas, knowledge, and personality.
This month is a reminder that our school community is stronger when every voice is heard. Speech-Language Pathologist and DCSS Communication Coach Natalie Avery says AAC helps students become advocates.
"By giving AAC users access to language that lets them advocate for play, friendships, and their daily needs in their own way, we honor their autonomy and humanity and create conditions where real learning can flourish,” Avery explained. “AAC promotes inclusive education where students can participate actively in classroom discussions and social interactions to advance academic success."