This resource guide on the assistive technology (AT) decision-­making process was created to assist Ohio school districts in understanding their obligation to provide needed AT devices and services to students with disabilities. General information on the school district’s responsibility to consider the AT needs of all students who are receiving special education services and on the legal implications for districts is provided.

As outlined in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act (IDEA), the local school district must provide for the specific needs of students with disabilities through a team process, including assessment for AT needs and implementation of AT services. Local educators and related service providers must make sound judgments on AT solutions that will be a part of the student’s individualized educational program (IEP). It is OCALI’s hope that this resource guide will support schools in making sound judgments in these areas.

This guide was developed in collaboration with the Ohio Assistive Technology Network with funding from the Ohio Department of Education’s Office for Exceptional Children.

Download Full AT Resource Guide (PDF)


AT Resource Guide Sections