Creating what are called SWAT Teams - or Schools in Westchester Assistive Technology Teams - the Westchester Institute for Human Development has partnered with local public schools to train educators and expand the use of various assistive technologies.

Among the SWAT Teams’ most valued initiatives is something called the loan library, which is stocked with various assistive equipment that parents and educators can test before purchasing.

It will cost between $2,500 and $15,000 a year to use the loan library, depending on the size of the district. Consultations and training sessions are also available at an additional cost.

“The most effective cases are when the districts use the loan library and the equipment doesn’t work,” said Izel Obermeyer, co-director of the WIHD’s Assistive Technology Program. “The last thing you want to do is recommend a $7,000 machine and it sits in the closet.”