In special education classrooms, every gesture, response, and effort holds meaning. This interactive session is designed for educators working with students with complex access needs who communicate in nontraditional or individualized ways. Participants will explore how to meaningfully assess student progress using the Grading Rubric for Students with Complex Access Needs in combination with the Personal Communication Dictionary (PCD).

Through hands-on activities, teachers will learn how to identify and interpret unique forms of student communication and integrate these observations into grading practices that reflect genuine growth. Educators will engage with sample scenarios and collaboratively score a student profile using the rubric and corresponding communication cues outlined in a PCD. The session will also guide participants in developing communication profiles for their own students and using rubric-based evidence to inform instruction, support IEP goals, and facilitate communication with families.

Join us as we move beyond traditional grading—toward practices that value every student’s voice, recognize effort in all forms, and promote access to assessments for our most complex learners. #ATESC1 #AUESC1 #ECSEESC1 #LIDESC1

ECSE Teachers, Self-Contained Special Education Teachers, Homebound Special Education Teachers, Staff working with Students with Complex Access Needs.

Special Education
TTESS 1.1 Standards and Alignment
TTESS 1.2 Data and Assessment
TTESS 1.3 Knowledge of Students
TTESS 1.4 Activities
TTESS 2.1 Achieving Expectations
TTESS 2.2 Content Knowledge and Expertise
TTESS 2.3 Communication
TTESS 2.4 Differentiation
TTESS 2.5 Monitor and Adjust
TTESS 3.1 Classroom Environment, Routines, Procedures
TTESS 4.3 Professional Development

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