Happy Speech and Language Hearing Month 2026 to all our amazing SLP/SLPA’s throughout the state! National Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) Day is celebrated annually on May 18th; this day is dedicated to recognizing the work of speech-language pathologists and raise awareness of treating communication and swallowing disorders.
ASHA has shared some great resources in celebration of Speech and Language Hearing Month that may be a helpful tool for any related service provider.
https://www.asha.org/siteassets/nslhm/guess-my-feeling-charades-activity-description.pdf
For those that use TD Snap or looking to learn more, Any Word Works for TD Snap has created a resource for related service providers, staff, and families to support understanding of strategies for teaching and modeling AAC. Enjoy and please share!
I wanted to take a moment to share an important update for those who may not yet be aware. Beginning March 1, 2026, federal Medicaid funding changes will impact AAC lending programs across Vermont. As a result, the Assistive Technology iPad Loan Program will have fewer iPads available for trial use. As a result, they will gradually phase out device loans to schools, hospitals, hospices, and small businesses employing SLPs.
The program is encouraging organizations to begin developing their own iPad and AAC app libraries to support long-term access for clients and students. To assist with this transition, they have created a resource document with guidance and recommendations, available upon request. Linked below is the VT state Assistive Technology Program website.
https://atp.vermont.gov/services/aac-ipad-loans
If you are a Speech-Language Pathologist, assistant, student, or related professional in Vermont, joining your state speech-language-hearing association is a valuable way to stay informed, connected, and supported. Membership provides access to professional development opportunities, advocacy efforts affecting our field, networking with colleagues across the state, and updates on Vermont-specific legislation, Medicaid changes, and licensure information. Becoming involved at the state level also helps strengthen the voice of SLPs and audiologists throughout Vermont while supporting the individuals and communities we serve. Membership Link to sign up or learn more information to become involved.
As school-based related service providers, we know how important collaboration is in supporting our students’ success. By continuing to share resources, ideas, and advocacy efforts, we can help ensure students have access to the tools and services they need to succeed. I wish you all the best of luck as the school year winds down, don’t forget to practice self-care.
Free Upcoming Trainings
May 14 at 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. “Introduction to VSAC Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS): Planning for Life After High School”
This workshop will highlight the work that VT Student Assistance Corporation (VSAC) Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) Counselors are doing in twelve schools across Vermont in partnership with HireAbility Transition Counselors, to strengthen coordinated support for students navigating postsecondary planning. You will gain an overview of Pre-ETS and explore the interactive workshops VSAC counselors are delivering that are designed to help students identify their interests, clarify career and education goals, and build practical skills needed to manage life after high school.
Presenters: Tia Tallman – HireAbility VT: Transition Program Manager, and from VSAC: Lauren Hood – Curriculum Lead & Pre-ETS Manager, Dray Bourgeois – Pre-ETS Counselor for Southern VT, and Rich Boyers – Pre-ETS Counselor for Northern VT
May 19 at 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. “Student-Led Individualized Education Programs (IEP)”
When students are given the opportunity to have an active role in the development of their individualized education program, they learn how to state their preferences and goals, and take ownership over their future. A student-led IEP process has many benefits, such as promoting self-advocacy, improving student engagement, and strengthening transition planning. This workshop will be co-presented by three people with experience with student-led IEPs: a disability advocate, a parent of a person with a disability, and a person who supports youth with disabilities as they transition to adulthood.
Presenters: Jayson Capobianco – Family Resources Consultant/Postsecondary Transition Consultant with the Vermont I-Team, Ocean Streeter – disability advocate with Green Mountain Self-Advocates and UVM CDCI and Michele Streeter – NE Regional Family Support Consultant with the Vermont I-Team
Happy Spring,
Catherine Armani-Munn MS, OTR/L