The communication canopy strategy for a school integrates various specialized communication methods and approaches to foster an inclusive learning environment. Firstly, the strategy highlights the implementation of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tools, providing training to staff, and engaging parents to support students who need these tools. For instance, students might use communication boards or devices to express their needs, and workshops ensure everyone is comfortable and proficient in using these methods.
Furthermore, the strategy adopts the TEACH approach to create structured, predictable classroom environments that benefit all students, particularly those who thrive on routine. Visual schedules and task analysis break down complex tasks into reachable goals, promoting student independence and consistency in their learning process. This method is complemented by the SCERTS model, which emphasizes social communication, emotional regulation, and sensory supports tailored to the individual needs of each student, thereby fostering a holistic educational experience.
In addition to these specialized methods, the strategy underscores the fundamental importance of effective communication. This includes developing curriculum modules, organizing workshops, and involving speech-language pathologists in daily activities to integrate communication in every aspect of learning. Moreover, addressing resistance to funding is crucial. By engaging local authorities, organizing fundraising events, and advocating through community coalitions, the strategy aims to overcome financial hurdles, ensuring that communication resources are adequately funded and effectively utilized.
The strategies
⛳️ Strategy 1: Integrate AAC methods
- Identify and procure appropriate AAC devices and tools for students
- Provide training for staff on using AAC devices effectively
- Incorporate AAC use in daily classroom activities
- Develop personalised AAC plans for each student requiring such support
- Conduct regular assessments to evaluate the effectiveness of AAC usage
- Engage parents in the AAC training process
- Create visual aids and communication boards around the school
- Promote peer-involvement in using AAC with students
- Host workshops and information sessions on AAC for the school community
- Collect feedback from students, parents, and teachers on the AAC implementation process
⛳️ Strategy 2: Implement TEACH approach
- Educate staff on the principles and techniques of the TEACH methodology
- Develop structured classroom environments that support the TEACH approach
- Create visual schedules and routines for students
- Use task analysis to break down complex activities into manageable steps
- Promote the use of work systems to enhance student independence
- Provide consistent and predictable classroom environments
- Tailor teaching practices to meet the individual needs of each student
- Regularly monitor and evaluate student progress with TEACH methods
- Foster collaboration between teachers, parents, and specialists
- Share success stories and best practices with the school community
⛳️ Strategy 3: Adopt the SCERTS model
- Train teachers and support staff on the SCERTS framework
- Develop Individualised Education Programmes (IEPs) based on SCERTS goals
- Incorporate social communication goals into daily classroom activities
- Use emotional regulation strategies to support student engagement
- Create opportunities for interactive and cooperative learning
- Implement sensory supports to accommodate individual sensory needs
- Promote student self-advocacy through the SCERTS approach
- Organise regular team meetings to review and adjust SCERTS-based practices
- Engage families in understanding and applying the SCERTS model at home
- Monitor and document progress to ensure the effectiveness of SCERTS interventions
⛳️ Strategy 4: Highlight the importance of effective communication
- Develop a curriculum module on the fundamentals of communication
- Design informational materials highlighting the role of communication in learning
- Conduct workshops and seminars on 'how and why we communicate'
- Create role-playing activities to practice communication skills
- Showcase successful communication strategies and student achievements
- Involve speech-language pathologists in classroom activities
- Cultivate a school-wide culture that values and respects all forms of communication
- Encourage student presentations on communication topics
- Disseminate research and articles on the benefits of effective communication
- Create support groups for students and parents to discuss communication challenges and successes
⛳️ Strategy 5: Address funding resistance and silence
- Develop a comprehensive report detailing the need for communication resources
- Engage with local authorities and explain the impact of communication support on student outcomes
- Organise fundraising events to supplement funding gaps
- Create a community coalition to advocate for better funding
- Present case studies demonstrating the effectiveness of the current strategies
- Host open forums to discuss financial constraints and potential solutions
- Provide transparency on how funds are being utilised for communication enhancements
- Seek partnerships with local businesses and organisations for support
- Mobilise parents and the community for a letter-writing campaign
- Submit grant applications to relevant foundations and educational institutions
Bringing accountability to your strategy
It's one thing to have a plan, it's another to stick to it. We hope that the examples above will help you get started with your own strategy, but we also know that it's easy to get lost in the day-to-day effort.
That's why we built Tability: to help you track your progress, keep your team aligned, and make sure you're always moving in the right direction.
Give it a try and see how it can help you bring accountability to your strategy.
