Who is responsible for funding AAC devices in schools?

The school system is typically responsible for funding AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) devices for students who require them. This responsibility is rooted in the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which mandates that public schools provide appropriate services and accommodations to students with disabilities, including those who may benefit from AAC devices. Under this law, schools are obligated to assess the communication needs of students and ensure they have access to the necessary tools and resources to facilitate their educational experiences.

While parents, state governments, and federal programs may play roles in supporting or supplementing funding, the primary obligation falls on the school system to ensure that students with disabilities receive the support they need to succeed academically. This could include the purchase and maintenance of AAC devices as part of the students' individualized education programs (IEPs).