Imagine a world where every student’s voice is heard, understood, and valued—a place where communication is more than just a skill; it’s a powerful link to connection and growth. At the Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB), this vision guides our every initiative. We know that communication extends beyond words; it’s about building bridges and nurturing relationships. This year, we were thrilled to introduce something truly transformative: outdoor communication boards.
What are Outdoor Communication Boards?
Our outdoor communication boards are vibrant, interactive spaces designed for students to express themselves freely, regardless of their communication challenges. These installations, created with the expertise and dedication of our speech-language pathologists (SLPs), serve as more than just visual tools; they are symbols of our commitment to inclusivity and innovation. Featuring pictures and symbols that students can point to, these boards enable communication for students facing unique challenges, such as those on the autism spectrum, English language learners, or students with physical or intellectual disabilities.
Why Are They Important?
Outdoor communication boards play a vital role in fostering connections. Engaging in social activities outside the classroom can be difficult for students with communication challenges without access to tools like AAC (Augmentative and Alternative Communication). This often means missing out on important parts of school life—playing, chatting, and simply feeling included. With these communication boards, we’re rewriting that story. Now, students have the tools to participate, connect, and be fully included in the social experiences that define school communities.
Promoting Inclusion and Understanding
These boards do more than facilitate communication—they promote inclusivity and acceptance across our schools. By making communication accessible to everyone, everywhere, we show students that different ways of communicating are not barriers to participation. Through these boards, we aim to foster empathy, understanding, and an appreciation for diversity among all students, supporting an environment where everyone belongs.
Benefits for Everyone
While primarily designed to support students with specific communication challenges, outdoor communication boards offer learning opportunities for all students. They encourage reading practice, enhance picture-object recognition, and nurture an atmosphere of acceptance. By integrating these tools, our schools create not only a more accessible environment but also a community where every student is valued and supported.
Looking Ahead
We’re excited to pilot outdoor communication boards in 16 OCSB schools, with ongoing collaboration among SLPs, educators, and school staff. This initiative is part of our broader mission to empower every student to communicate, connect, and thrive. Through these efforts, we’re building an inclusive community where every student can confidently express themselves and be part of the journey together.