Empowering Students with Autism Through Technology and Vocational Training
Help me give my students a laptop computer so they can access the vocational curriculum.
FULLY FUNDED! Mr. Blutstein's classroom raised $633
This project is fully funded
My Project
Our students are bright, curious, and motivated learners with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), aged 16–21, who attend a special education school in Brooklyn, NY. Many of them face challenges related to communication, social interactions, and adapting to new environments. Despite these challenges, our students are highly capable and eager to learn real-world skills that will help them transition to adulthood and the workforce.
Each student in our vocational program is unique, with diverse strengths ranging from technical skills and attention to detail to creativity and perseverance.
They work hard daily in internships, school-based enterprises, and community-based job experiences. What they need now is access to modern technology to fully engage in the digital aspects of today's workforce.
I am requesting a laptop computer that will directly support our students in vocational training and career exploration activities. This technology will provide students with access to virtual vocational resources, remote job coaching, and online job readiness programs.
Technology is not just a tool for learning—it is a bridge to independence for students with disabilities. For students with autism, structured access to digital platforms can support communication, executive functioning, and confidence. With this laptop, students can work one-on-one with job coaches, speech therapists, and teachers to role-play workplace scenarios and develop social skills essential for employment.
Moreover, many of our students live in underserved communities and do not have access to a personal computer or reliable internet at home. The laptop will be available for in-class use during the school year and during vocational instruction over the summer months. It will also support hybrid and remote learning opportunities for SYEP and other workforce development programs.
Nearly all students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mr. Blutstein and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
