Are school districts responsible for customization, maintenance, repair, and replacement of assistive technology devices?
Assistive technology services such as customization, maintenance, repair, and replacement are included considerations in the acquisition of equipment or devices purchased/provided by the school district. It is the responsibility of the school district to ensure that students who require assistive technology devices also receive the necessary assistive technology services that will make the technology meaningful to the student. This requirement reflects the “individualization” of a specific type of device. If family owned assistive technology is used by the school, is listed in the IEP, and is necessary for providing FAPE, the school district is also responsible for maintenance, repair, and re-placement. Responsibilities for these services should be identified in the IEP. What is the responsibility of a school district when parents elect to purchase a needed device on their own and the family-owned device is written into the IEP? Federal law is silent on this issue. However, it is reaso
