Washington County’s elementary school playground now features a “non-verbal board,” a project initiated by speech and language pathologist Jessie Doll and supported by the school’s FBLA organization. The FBLA students provided the labor to create the sign, while the Washington County Endowment Association funded the materials through a grant.

The large core communication sign includes symbols that staff can use to help students understand directions and model language use on the playground. It also serves as a tool for nonverbal students and those experiencing frustration, allowing them to point to symbols to express their feelings and needs. Previously, students relied on picture-based communication within the school, but these were not readily available outdoors.

The yearlong project resulted in a durable, weather-resistant sign promoting inclusivity by encouraging all students to communicate. The Core Communication Sign fosters language development and ensures every child has a voice on the playground.