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MCPS Committee hears that assistive technology is pivotal but teams are stretched thin
Summary
Montgomery County Public Schools staff told the committee that assistive technology (AT) — from low‑tech switches to high‑tech eye‑gaze systems — is legally required and transformative for students with complex needs, but rising requests and recurring costs are stretching district teams and budgets.
The Montgomery County Public Schools Committee on Special Populations on Sept. 29 heard presentations from specialized‑student support staff about the district’s assistive technology programs and the challenges of scaling supports districtwide.
Dr. Margaret Cage, chief, Specialized Student Support Officer, opened the segment and said staff would describe how AT supports medically fragile students and build capacity across schools. Erica Williams, director for Special Education Pre‑K and Related Services, told the committee that "IEP teams are required by law to consider assistive technology and students' ability to communicate at every IEP meeting," and that AT teams provide devices, services, repairs and coaching to students, families and staff.
Alice Wright, the Interact instructional specialist, said the Interact team provides hands‑on support to school staff for students with complex communication needs across all schools. She described the team as…
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