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

*** VIRTUAL ONLY ***
Participants can join the Zoom session by following these steps:
1. Go to "My Content"
2. Click on "My Upcoming Workshops"
3. Find the current workshop
4. Find the Zoom link under "Special Instructions"

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

Special Education