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Use of assistive technology initiates connection and belonging

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A group of people, some in wheelchairs, are seated in the foreground facing a woman at a podium, while a large screen displaying images is visible in the background.
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In the foreground, a table is covered with communication boards, lanyards, and stickers, while the background shows more materials and a glimpse of a laptop.
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Two young women in wheelchairs smile with a woman standing between them, while a conference room with chairs and tables is visible in the background.
In the foreground, three people are gathered around a table, with one person in a wheelchair, while the background shows a bright, modern room with tables, chairs, and large windows overlooking a green landscape.
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Several assistive technology switches and a sign explaining %22Switches%22 and %22Scanning%22 are arranged on a wooden surface, with a blurred background that appears to be a display case.
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A young girl in a pink wheelchair is being assisted by a woman in a pink shirt, while other people watch in the background.
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Use of assistive technology initiates connection and belonging

Use of assistive technology initiates connection and belonging

In the 2025-26 school year, a group of Bellingham Public Schools staff, including those in Special Education, hosted two family nights filled with connection, curiosity and celebration.

Families gathered to explore assistive technology in action—watching students type with their eyes, navigate tools with small head or foot movements, and discover new ways to communicate and create. These events occurred in November 2025 and April 2026 at the District Office.

Just as powerful were the moments in between: laughter over games, siblings “playing” with innovative tools, and the joy of learning side by side. From storytelling to mad libs, there was joy and meaning.

Assistive technology specialist Amy Connolly reflected… “Inclusion means more than access — it also means belonging, and belonging is born in community. Events like these create a rare and vital space where students, families, and staff who communicate in unique, yet similar ways can find each other, see themselves reflected in others, and feel the particular ease that comes from being with your people — not despite how you communicate, but because of it.”

Guest speaker Drew Sato was an inspiration to students and staff alike. Her journey of gaining access and becoming an author reminded us of what’s possible, and she’s now honing her voice as a talented storyteller.

Staff, vendors, and community partners such as the Special Education Technology Center, also attended bringing encouragement, care and a deep commitment to every student’s success.

These events were deeply meaningful and provided access to some cutting-edge assistive technology tools, as well as other students and families in our schools who could relate, learn and share.  

 

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