⭐As an Assistant Principal in a District 75 school in the South Bronx, I have the privilege of supporting incredible students with autism and complex learning needs. Many of our children do not have access to private therapies, specialized equipment, or additional communication supports outside of school. For many families, school is the place where their children receive the majority of their developmental, behavioral, and communication support — and every resource we bring into the building directly impacts their future.

Our students learn best when instruction is visual, flexible, and highly individualized. Many struggle with transitions, attention, and overwhelming sensory environments. The LG StandbyME 2, a mobile, height-adjustable, battery-powered touchscreen, would allow us to bring instruction to students rather than requiring them to move to a fixed screen or whole-group area. This flexibility can be the difference between a successful learning moment and a moment of frustration or dysregulation.

The StandbyME 2 would support our learners by displaying visual schedules, first/then boards, AAC modeling, social stories, movement breaks, and instructional videos exactly where a student is working — at the table, on the carpet, in a calming space, or during 1:1 instruction. Its portability allows staff to adjust visuals and language supports in real time based on each student’s regulation and communication profile.

Beyond student use, this tool would significantly strengthen our professional development for teachers and paraprofessionals. As an AP, I regularly model instructional strategies, communication supports, and ABA/VB practices. Having a mobile smart screen would allow me to display live modeling videos, data systems, strategy visuals, and examples right in the classroom during coaching. Staff could immediately practice techniques while seeing them demonstrated, improving consistency, confidence, and instructional quality across the team.

In 2019, I was honored to receive the Big Apple Award, NYC’s citywide teaching award recognizing educators who make a meaningful impact on students and school communities. Now, as a school leader, my goal is to bring that same level of excellence, dedication, and innovation to my entire building. This project is one way to ensure our students — and the staff who support them — have access to the high-quality tools they deserve.

In addition to the LG StandbyME 2, any remaining funds will be used to purchase supporting technology and communication materials, such as a classroom webcam for modeling lessons, AAC supports (core boards, symbol sets, device mounts), headphones, visual schedule materials, and sensory/reinforcement tools that help students stay regulated and engaged. These items will ensure our classrooms are fully equipped with the visual and communication supports our learners rely on every day.

Any contribution, no matter the size, will help us bring this transformative resource to our students and staff.

THANK YOU FOR HELPING ME HELP OUR AMAZING KIDS and for supporting our school community by believing in the incredible potential of our learners here in the South Bronx.