Speakers: Matthew Baud and Jill Senner
Session Description:
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) require that schools use programs, curricula, and practices based on “scientifically-based research” “to the extent practicable.” However, in many disciplines, including AAC, gaps often exist between what is known as effective practices (i.e., theory and science) and what is actually done (i.e., policy and practice) in schools. In this session, assessment and intervention tools used by one suburban special education department will be introduced.
Objectives:
- Participants will identify strategies for including all stakeholders in school-based AAC assessments.
- Participants will list at least 4 team members who should be included in school-based AAC decision-making.
- Describe at least three elements of successful school staff communication partner instruction programs.
Speaker Bios:
Matthew R. Baud, MS, CCC-SLP, has over 20 years of experience in augmentative and alternative communication (AAC). He currently serves as the Assistive Technology Coordinator at Niles Township District for Special Education (NTDSE), where he conducts evaluations, provides training, and coaches staff. Matthew also runs a private AAC practice supporting individuals with complex communication needs from birth through adulthood. He is an adjunct professor at Saint Xavier University, where he teaches graduate courses in AAC. He has presented at state, national, and international conferences and has published research in the field of AAC. In recognition of his contributions, Matthew received the Illinois State Board of Education’s 2024 Award of Excellence in the Student Support Personnel category.
Jill E. Senner, PhD, CCC-SLP, has over 25 years of experience working with children with complex communication needs. She is the owner and director of Technology and Language Center, where she specializes in providing augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) services via telepractice. Dr. Senner presents lectures on AAC topics online and around the world and has published research articles and textbook chapters on AAC.