Bill > S289

This bill aims to improve augmentative and alternative communication opportunities for children with disabilities. The key provisions require all teachers applying for an initial Massachusetts educator license on or after September 1, 2019 to receive training and preparation in the use of augmentative and alternative communication for students who are nonverbal or have limited speech. This training must include coursework and practical experience in the classroom with children who use augmentative and alternative communication, such as those with Autism Spectrum Disorder, acquired brain injury, cerebral palsy, and other disabilities. Additionally, the bill requires that teacher and specialist teacher licensure requirements, as well as professional development plans, adequately address augmentative and alternative communication competencies to educate students with limited or no verbal abilities.

Education

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/190/S289