Imagine not being able to talk. Imagine being dependent on others to anticipate your wants and needs. Imagine your only mode of communication is gestures. Welcome to the world of my students.
My students are autistic non verbal adolescents.
Every day is filled with frustration because they rely on others to anticipate their desires and they are often disappointed. At times they throw a tantrum because they are unable to communicate what they want. Other times, they withdraw because they have given up trying to be understood. They are in a special education public school in New York City.
My Project
The communication devices will enable my students to have voices. I will be able to teach them how to communicate and ease their frustration because now they will be able to request what they want and receive it. These devices will teach them the benefits of communication and how they can have an effect on their surroundings by using the devices.
My students inability to communicate darkens their world.
I hope to be an Annie Sullivan to their Helen Keller and show them that despite their disability they can communicate and make their world a brighter place.
More than three‑quarters of 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
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