District MDMI Program Enhances Communication and Access for Students

Students at Belmont Runyon practice their communication skills
Students at Belmont Runyon practice their communication skills

The Office of Special Education is underway with its second year piloting Boardmaker in the MD/MDMI program in conjunction with district Speech-Language Specialists (SLSs).

Boardmaker supports Functional Communication Training and provides visuals for the learning environment for students with multiple disabilities and/or those experiencing difficulty with communication. Strong visual learners understand what they see, better than what they hear. Visual support benefits include:

  • Better understanding
  • Increased/improved communication and learning
  • Enhanced accessibility
  • Assisting students with processing language, organizing their thinking, remembering information, and many other skills necessary to participate effectively
  • Alternative assessment strategies

This year’s program has been expanded to include all Speech Language Specialists throughout the district. Pilot program Speech Language Specialists are also in the process of receiving a color printer and a Boardmaker starter kit to assist with creating communication books to support learning in the classroom.