Assistive Technology
What it means, what record to check, and what to ask next.
What AT means in the school record
AT means Assistive Technology. In an IEP conversation, the practical question is what decision, service, support, or record this term affects for your child.
Assistive Technology is any item, equipment, software, or system used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of a student with a disability. AT services can include evaluating, selecting, adapting, training, and supporting use of the tool.
Why it matters
AT can support access to writing, reading, communication, mobility, organization, or curriculum. Ask the team to document the tool, task, setting, training, and implementation support.
What to do when you see AT
Use this when writing, reading, communication, vision, hearing, mobility, or organization barriers may require tools or AT services.
Check This Record
- Check whether the IEP team considered AT as a special factor.
- Look for device, task, setting, training, troubleshooting, and who supports use.
- Separate the device from the service or training needed to use it independently.
Red Flags
- The IEP says access to technology without naming the tool, task, or setting.
- A device is provided but no training or implementation support is listed.
- AT is removed because the student does not use it, without data on whether it was taught and offered.
Documents to Gather
- AT consideration notes
- IEP accommodations/services
- Work samples
- Provider notes
- Implementation logs
Sample Finding
The IEP allows speech-to-text, but it does not say who teaches setup, when it applies, or how staff will troubleshoot during assignments.
What to Write
"Please review whether assistive technology is needed for this task and document the device, setting, training, staff support, and evidence of implementation."
Who to Contact
Start with the case manager or IEP coordinator. If the term affects a 504 plan, copy the 504 coordinator; if it affects records, copy the records contact.
When to Get Local Help
Get qualified local help if this term affects discipline, safety, placement, graduation, evaluation refusal, service loss, complaint or due-process deadlines, or a state-specific timeline.
Privacy Note
Share only the IEP pages, evaluations, progress data, service logs, or school records needed for this question. Avoid broad medical history, extra student identifiers, or unrelated records when you ask for help.
Source check
This page is educational information, not legal advice. Rules, timelines, and procedures can vary by state, district, dispute posture, and the individual school record.