Session 4B - Supporting Students with Complex Needs Through AT Makers

Speakers: Valerie Chapman-Jones and Chelly Ney-Shaffer

Session Description:
Commercially purchased AT is expensive and can’t meet the needs of all students. Learn how high school AT Makers can support students with complex communication needs by creating, modifying, and customizing AT solutions.  Examples of projects and suggestions on how to find and get started with AT Makers will also be provided.

Speaker Bios:
Valerie Chapman-Jones has been a  Staff Developer at Lincoln Intermediate Unit (LIU) for 3.5 years.  She provides training and consultative services under the Assistive Technology and Inclusive Practices Initiatives. Val is an ASHA-certified speech-language pathologist who worked in public schools for over 19 years and continues to work as an SLP at a private clinic, serving students with complex communication needs who use AAC. Val has an Assistive Technology certificate from Bowling Green State University and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Special Education with a focus on assistive technology.




Chelly Ney-Shaffer is a Staff Developer at Lincoln Intermediate Unit (LIU) as a Trainer and Consultant (TaC) for Assistive Technology (AT) and Math. Prior to coming to LIU, Chelly worked at Central Susquehanna Intermediate Unit for 16 years; 7 of which were as a TaC. She earned her Master’s degree from West Chester University of Pennsylvania for Special Education with a certification in AT and Universal Design for Learning (UDL). Prior to becoming a TaC, Chelly worked as a special education teacher for over 20 years working with a variety of disability categories and age groups.