Home Training Conferences AAC Talks, May 8, 2026 2A: AAC in Action: Building Staff Capacity and Confidence Through Intentional Training
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2A: AAC in Action: Building Staff Capacity and Confidence Through Intentional Training

Speakers: Rachael Smolen and Kelly Doyle

Session Description:
This session is designed for related service providers and teachers who support AAC users and play a key role in guiding classroom support staff with AAC implementation. While AAC systems may be in place, successful implementation depends heavily on how well classroom staff are trained, supported, and empowered to use those systems throughout the day. The session will also emphasize partnering with families to support consistent AAC use across school and home environments. 

This session focuses on how to intentionally teach classroom staff to model, support, and respond to AAC across routines and learning environments. Participants will learn practical strategies to create consistency among staff who work most closely with AAC users. Attendees will leave with ideas and resources to effectively train and support classroom staff.

Objectives:
  • Describe the critical role classroom support staff play in successful AAC implementation.
  • Identify learned strategies to teach team members to model, support, and respond to AAC users’ communication.
  • Explain the role of family training and collaboration in supporting consistent AAC implementation.
Speaker Bios:
Rachel Smolen smilingRachael Smolen, M.S., CCC-SLP, is a licensed and ASHA-certified Speech-Language Pathologist currently working as a full-time Augmentative and Alternative Communication specialist on the Assistive Technology Team for the Bucks County Intermediate Unit in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. She earned an Assistive Technology Graduate Certificate from George Mason University. Between her 13 years with the Bucks County IU and the 14 years she spent as a practicing clinician in Arlington County Public Schools, Virginia, she has nearly 27 years of experience. Rachael has presented at numerous speaking engagements, including local, regional, and national platforms.

Kelly Doyle, M.A., CCC‑SLP, is a licensed and ASHA‑certified Speech‑Language Pathologist currently serving as an Augmentative and Alternative Kelly Doyle smilingCommunication (AAC) Specialist on the Assistive Technology Team at the Bucks County Intermediate Unit in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. She is completing West Chester University’s Graduate Certificate program in Universal Design for Learning and Assistive Technology and will graduate in May. Now in her sixth year as an SLP, Kelly is dedicated to expanding her knowledge and skills related to AAC.