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Student Self-Advocacy

Students Speak Up!

All of us want to be better readers, writers and thinkers! It's never too late to improve your skills, but you need to practice and spend time learning about the ways you learn best.

Do you learn best taking notes, using technologies, listening to presented information, using your hands, looking at pictures, or a combination of these styles? Do you learn better in a quiet environment, in small groups, or with another student? Do you ask your teacher or parents for help when you need it?

	I use Cowriter and WriteoutLoud for homework and stuff I find on the Internet for things that I can't read. Before I used Cowriter, I struggled in every class. I felt everyone could read or write or do more than me. I got picked on. Then my special-education teacher Ms. Craig, told me that I qualify for an alpha smart and Write out Loud with Cowriter so I could do more assignments for all my teachers. I use them all the time! Read more from Annabel
	Demetrius Hulseberg, a senior at Spotswood School District, NJ, created this authentic video to demonstrate his appreciation for SOLO Literacy Suite. Demetrius used SOLO in his high school to improve his reading and writing skills. Thanks for sharing this great video! View Video (1:40) SOLO combines four powerful assistive technology tools— Co:Writer—Word Prediction Read:OutLoud—Text Reader Draft:Builder—Graphic Organizer Write:OutLoud—Talking Word Processor
These tools guide students who need access to general curriculum materials and step-by-step guided writing instruction with audio support. Read more about Demetrius' school district's results using SOLO.

	Joey is a teen with autism. He didn't have verbal skills until he started to use assistive technologies at his school. Hear his transformation thanks to his teacher, Mrs. Barbara Wollak and the use of Co:Writer, a word prediction writing tool. View Video (0:28)

View these short videos and listen to students talk about their learning struggles and how they overcame them with the help of their teachers, parents and using technology.

	High School student talks about SOLO writing technology and the difference it has made to him and his learning success! View Video (0:20)
	High School senior reflects back in time on reading and writing difficulties and looks to a brighter future. View Video (0:15)
	Elementary student testifies about the benefits of using technologies to strengthen reading and writing skills at Washington Press Club in a congressional hearing. View Video (0:49)
	Middle School student shares feelings and successes after advocating for her unique learning style. View Video (1:41)
	Elementary student shares ideas and examples of asking for technologies that will help you learn and practice the skills you need to succeed. View Video (0:28)