Tell us the teacher you want to support

Beverly Baker

As a special needs educator I am always looking at ways to help my students be successful not only in the classroom but in thier everyday lives. Most of my students have communication needs that can only be addressed through expensive, bulky communicative devices or, icons (printed pictures/words on cards), or for some basic sign. My goal as thier teacher is to allow them the same opportunites as thier general education peers, and prepare them for middle and high school programs. We have a wonderful peer tutor program here on campus and I have tutors who come into my classroom daily to work with my kids. They play, socialize and help them with lessons. My kids are included in everyday activites and the peers love working with them. Id love for my kids to be able to communicate better with thier friends, families and in everyday social connections. Recently I was given an iPad to use in the classroom. I have been seeing some dramatic increases in skills, and excitiment in my students lessons. I would love to have iPads for each student in the classroom. The ipads are "cool" and more socially acceptable, so my special kids dont have to stand out ....they will be able to comminicate quicker, and with the speaking iPad it encourages more vocalization from my students. I appreciate your time in reading my request, and thank you.