Worcester County educators promote expanding expression tools for nonverbal students

During the Worcester County Board of Education meeting on April 15, 2025, educators highlighted the innovative use of the Expanding Expression Tool (EET) to enhance communication skills among students, particularly those with limited verbal abilities. This initiative, presented by educators including Dr. Wallace and Angela Paris, aims to provide students with a structured method to develop language and expression through a series of visual and tactile aids.

The EET employs a set of colored beads, each representing different aspects of language and description. For instance, the green bead signifies the category of an item, while the blue bead indicates its action. This hands-on approach allows students to engage with language in a meaningful way, fostering their ability to communicate effectively. The program is particularly beneficial for students who are nonverbal or have limited verbal communication skills, as it encourages them to practice and expand their language capabilities.

The meeting also showcased how the EET can be integrated with augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices. This combination enables students to use technology to express themselves, making the learning process more accessible. For example, students can navigate through categories and actions on their communication devices, reinforcing their understanding of language through interactive prompts.

In addition to the EET, the educators discussed the importance of using core and fringe boards to support language development. Core boards contain essential vocabulary used daily, while fringe boards provide specific descriptors that help students articulate their thoughts more clearly. This dual approach ensures that students have the tools they need to express themselves across various contexts.

The discussions at the meeting underscored a commitment to enhancing educational practices for all students, particularly those with special needs. By implementing tools like the EET and integrating technology, Worcester County Public Schools aims to create a more inclusive environment that empowers every student to communicate effectively. As these initiatives progress, the board anticipates further developments in language education strategies that will continue to support student growth and expression.