Equip Future Teachers with Assistive Tech

Every student deserves a way to communicate, participate, and show what they know. For students with disabilities, assistive technology makes that possible, but only when their teachers know how to use it.

SJSU's Department of Special Education prepares future educators to serve students with a wide range of strengths and support needs. But reading about assistive technology isn't the same as programming a communication device or testing an adaptive tool yourself. Many of these tools are costly, and our teacher candidates have few chances to practice with them before entering classrooms.

We're building a hands-on assistive technology lab: augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices and apps, tablets, switches and alternative-access tools, adapted writing and fine-motor supports, and literacy and training materials. Faculty will use the collection in demonstrations, lesson planning, and classroom scenarios across multiple courses and future cohorts.

Our $7,000 goal establishes a reusable lab for SJSU teacher candidates, and our $10,000 stretch goal adds more communication systems, access methods, and advanced training resources.

Your gift helps future special educators walk into their classrooms ready to remove barriers, honor every student's voice, and create truly inclusive learning. Give by October 31!