Speak AAC to Teach AAC - Supporting Communication Through AAC in Preschool April 24, 2026 PM Session (SPED/BH 10)

Course Description

• Every student deserves to be understood, and as an educator, you have the power to give them that voice. This training guides educators through the implementation of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) systems and visual supports, showing you how to turn everyday classroom moments into meaningful communication opportunities. You’ll learn evidence based strategies that focus on high frequency “core” words, incorporate AAC modeling strategies and descriptive teaching approaches to help AAC users become more confident and proficient communicators Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs), Early Childhood Special Education Specialists (ECSEs), and Educational Assistants (EAs) will benefit from real-world classroom videos, hands-on AAC practice and collaborative discussions with AT-SWAAAC members on the implementation in the preschool classroom. 

  Join us to discover how simple strategies can make a lifelong difference for all AAC users! 

• Lead Learner (Facilitator): Shelly Elfner | Sarah Reid
• Credit(s) and Type: 2.5 Hours Relicensure | Staff Development

Target Audience

• Certified Staff, Classified Staff
• Open to Substitute Teachers = Yes 
• Open to Student Teachers = Yes 
• Open to Charter School Staff = Not at this time 

Meeting Information

• Date: April 24, 2026
• Time: 12:30 PM - 3:00 PM
• Location: ACC Sturm Collaboration Campus, Community Room | 4500 Limelight Ave, Castle Rock, 80109Links to an external site.

Course Outcomes

Here are the outcomes for the course:

• Learn about 4 evidence-based communication partner strategies (Core Vocabulary, Descriptive Teacher, Wait Time, and Aided Language Input/Modeling without Expectations).
• Explore practical ways to implement AAC in the preschool classroom.
• Gain an understanding that AAC does not hinder speech development and that there are no cognitive prerequisites for a student to begin using AAC.