Technology & Therapy

Assistive Technology

The Assistive Technology Program (ATP) available to the Crawford Central School District provides on-site technical assistance working with students who may benefit from assistive technology. The program offers consultation, training, and guided practice to teams in the assessment and implementation process for students referred for augmentative communication devices, alternative computer access, assistive writing, environmental control units, access technologies for the visually and hearing impaired, and devices for auditory processing difficulties. The program provides services and supports to enhance the independence and integration of students who use assistive technology.

Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapy in public schools is different than occupational therapy in a hospital or clinic. The hospital therapist directs attention primarily to the rehabilitation needs of the child. The school therapist provides a related special education service and directs attention to helping the student to access the school environment. The teacher and the therapist work with the student so that the student can acquire the functional skills needed to access educational materials. The therapist may work with the student to adapt, design or fabricate equipment so that they can function better while at school, whether in the classroom, lunchroom or restroom. The therapist also helps the student participate in appropriate activities to attain functional performance in self care skills and visual-motor/fine motor skills, such as pencil tasks and visual perceptual skills.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy in public schools is different than physical therapy in a hospital or clinic. The hospital therapist directs attention primarily to the rehabilitation needs of the child. The school therapist provides a related special education service and directs attention to helping the student to access the school environment. The teacher and therapist work with the student so that they can acquire the gross motor skills needed to access educational materials and mobility skills to move safely about the school. The therapist may work with the student to adapt equipment so that they can function better while at school, whether in the classroom, lunchroom, or restroom. The therapist also helps the student participate in appropriate activities outside the school building, such as mobility for the playground and field trips.