This year, Northeast Elementary has launched a new project designed to make communication more accessible and inclusive for all students. Thanks to funding from the Ithaca Public Education Initiative (IPEI) Red & Gold Grant program, the school has installed AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication) supports around high-traffic areas of the building, including the playground.
Playground communication boards are an important tool for students with speech-language impairments and those learning English as a new language. By providing a shared, visual way to communicate, the boards help students connect with their peers and teachers, while also building awareness of and appreciation for the many ways people understand, learn, and communicate.
Using the boards is simple. Students and adults can point to pictures as they talk, helping link images to spoken words. For example:
A child who wants to go down the slide can point to the picture of the slide.
A student can point to “help” if they need assistance.
An adult might say, “Do you want more slide?” while pointing to the “more” symbol.
Educators are encouraged to model the use of the boards by inviting students to point, asking guiding questions, and honoring all forms of communication. With time and patience, these boards can foster confidence, belonging, and meaningful interaction for all children on the playground.
Thank you to the IPEI for supporting this important work and helping Northeast create a school community that celebrates diversity, equity, and inclusion—not only in the classroom but across all areas of school life.
