What is the most important additional step for a special educator to take to ensure effective communication for a student with a communication board?

The most important additional step for a special educator to take is updating pictures to reflect changing communication needs. This is crucial because communication boards must be tailored to the individual needs and preferences of the student. As a student's interests, experiences, and communication needs evolve, the content on the board should also be adjusted to keep it relevant and functional. This ensures that the student can effectively express themselves and understand others, fostering more meaningful interactions and improving their overall communication skills.

This adaptable approach helps in moments when the student may want to discuss new topics or activities that weren’t previously included in the communication board. It also supports the student's autonomy by allowing them to communicate about their current thoughts, feelings, and needs, rather than relying on outdated or irrelevant symbols and pictures that may not resonate anymore.