Leander ISD is proud to announce the installation of communication boards to support students with autism and other disorders throughout 45 LISD campuses. These boards will be strategically placed in areas including playgrounds, cafeterias and gyms.
The purchase and installation of these communication boards was made possible by a generous grant from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) in the spring of 2022, dedicated to advancing services for students with Autism. This two-year TEA grant is a testament to Leander ISD’s unwavering dedication to inclusive education.
“We are grateful to have received grant funds to support in our mission to provide an exceptional education for all students. This grant allows us to expand our services and enhance the learning experience for students with Autism,” Kimberly Waltmon, Assistant Superintendent of Special Programs and Services in Leander ISD, said. “By installing communication boards across our campuses, we are taking an important step toward fostering communication, independence and inclusion.”
These communication boards provide a means of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) and feature a diverse array of symbols, images and words in English and Spanish. These boards cater to the unique communication needs of non-speaking students with Autism or other disabilities. By providing these accessible resources, the district ensures that students can express themselves and engage with peers and educators, regardless of their communication abilities.
AAC Awareness Month, celebrated in October, aligns with Leander ISD’s mission to create an inclusive and supportive environment for all students, particularly those with complex communication needs. The communication boards represent a vital tool in advancing this mission, as they empower students with all abilities to communicate effectively and participate more fully in various aspects of school life.
Leander ISD remains committed to promoting a learning environment that values diversity and inclusivity, and this grant from TEA is evidence of its dedication to this mission. The district is excited to embark on this project and looks forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the lives of students with Autism and many others.
