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Monroe One Educational Services

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Office of Assistive Technology Services (OATS)

The Office of Assistive Technology Services (OATS) at Monroe One provides consultation, evaluation, planning, and training in the appropriate use of assistive technology.

OATS develops individual and organizational plans for the acquisition, use and maintenance of assistive and adaptive devices in special education. It coordinates the expertise of specialists in speech-language pathology, vision, occupational and physical therapy, and educational technology. 

OATS can assist in the evaluation of individual student needs, develop recommendations, and train in the use of assistive technology devices and software. Such devices and software may include:

  • specialized software programs and screen magnification software;

  • reading and writing supports;

  • augmentative and alternative communication devices;

  • alternative keyboards, mice, and other input devices;

  • and much more! 

In addition, OATS can provide guidance in the development of district assistive technology plans.

What is Assistive Technology?

The legal definition as it appears in IDEA is "any service that directly assists an individual with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device".  An assistive technology device is defined by the Assistive Technology Act of 1988 as "any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities."

Assistive Technology items can be described as "no tech", "low tech", "mid tech" or "high tech".

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