April 13, 2021 -- With a focus on inclusivity, Beachwood Elementary students were welcomed back with a new addition to the playground.

In collaboration with the Autism teachers and Speech Pathologists, Principal Kim Muir and Supervisor Jim Klass constructed a communication board as a tool for non-verbal students to use while outdoors.

“Many of our non-verbal students are equipped with communication devices. This addition is a natural extension of the classroom, and allows for continued communication when electronic devices may not be available,” Supervisor Klass shared.

Principal Muir added, “Building student vocabulary is one of our school goals for the year, and having a communication board serves as a method of language acquisition for all students.”

A key feature is that the board is designed to be dynamic in that the words and images can be adapted according to students’ needs. This is part of a broader school vision that includes additional communication boards in common areas throughout the building and an explicit belief that all students deserve the opportunity to reach their full potential.