Speak the Language of Inclusion

School-Wide Communication Access

Empower every student with a voice in every corner of your campus. Our SLP-designed communication boards ensure that accessibility is an integral part of your school's DNA—from the playground to the nurse's station.

  • Customized for specific school settings and student needs
  • Seamlessly integrated with speech-generating app technology
  • Durable, weather-resistant materials for indoor and outdoor use
  • Personalized with your school district colors and logos
Request Your Campus Plan
Students using a Smarty Symbols Communication Board

Communication Access Everywhere!

A comprehensive campus plan ensures students have access to communication support in every corner of the school building, promoting language learning and social opportunities for all.

🛝

Playground

Empowers students to engage in outdoor activities and recess, promoting inclusion through shared vocabulary tailored for play.

Recommended: XL Aluminum
🏫

Classrooms

Supports daily academic instruction and peer interaction with core vocabulary tailored for the classroom learning environment.

Recommended: Large Aluminum
🗣️

SLP Therapy Room

Provides a consistent visual tool for Speech-Language Pathologists to model language and support individual therapy goals.

Recommended: Large Aluminum
📚

School Library

Tailored vocabulary for book requests and social reading, ensuring non-verbal students actively engage in library activities.

Recommended: Large/Medium Aluminum
🩺

Nurse's Office

Crucial for student health, featuring a Pain Chart to help children accurately communicate health needs and feelings to staff.

Recommended: Medium Aluminum
🎨

Art & Specialty

Specific boards for Art, Music, and Electives that provide the technical vocabulary needed for creative expression.

Recommended: Medium Aluminum

School Impact Gallery

Explore our portfolio of successful school-wide communication board installations. Each project is customized to the school's unique branding and specific campus environment to ensure every student is seen and valued.

Gardner Elementary School Project
Library Desk

Gardner Elementary School

Features custom green architectural posts designed to match the school district colors, providing a focal point for inclusive play.

Southwest Cooperative Project
Nurse Station

Southwest Cooperative

Strategically installed for Morton Gingerwood to support non-speaking students with high-contrast symbols and social starters.

Van Buren Elementary Project
Wall Installation

Van Buren Elementary

A high-visibility chain-link mount that maximizes space while providing essential communication tools right on the recess field.

Chapel Hill Elementary Project
Recess Inclusion

Chapel Hill Elementary

Installed at eye-level to foster peer-to-peer interaction, helping students with diverse needs build lasting social connections.

Red Mill Elementary Project
Hallway Communication

Red Mill Elementary

Utilizing premium aluminum composite and UV-resistant inks to ensure accessibility is maintained through every season.

Sunnyside Elementary Project
Custom Designs

Sunnyside Elementary

Integrated school logos and personalized vocabulary that reflects the specific playground equipment and student culture.

Christ Classical Academy Project
Academic Integration

Christ Classical Academy

Bridging the classroom and the playground with consistent symbol usage to support holistic student development.

St. John the Baptist Project
Universal Design

St. John the Baptist

A testament to the school's commitment to community, ensuring every child can speak the universal language of inclusion.

Ludlow Elementary Project
SLP Recommended

Ludlow Elementary School

Expertly installed following SLP guidance to ensure spontaneous and effective communication for all ability levels.

Flexible Solutions for Every Campus

Choose the path that best fits your school's current goals and budget requirements.

School Playground Board

Targeted Individual Boards

Perfect for schools looking to start their inclusion journey in high-priority areas like the playground or nurse's office.

  • Customized vocabulary for specific settings
  • School logo and branding integration
  • QR code link to digital app replica
  • Premium durable materials
Explore Individual Boards
Most Popular
Library Board Nurse Board Art Board

Campus-Wide Inclusion Plan

Ensure consistent communication access across every campus location—from drop-off to afternoon recess.

  • Comprehensive bundle discount applied
  • Consistent symbols throughout campus
  • Campus-wide Smarty Symbols Studio Access
  • Professional design and planning support
Get a School-Wide Quote
High Contrast Preschool Board

Preschool Playground Board – High Contrast

Designed for maximum visibility, this high-contrast edition ensures that students with visual impairments or those needing stronger visual cues can navigate social play effectively.

Words: 58 carefully selected icons
Includes: Letters and numbers
View Product Details
Standard Preschool Board

Preschool School Playground Board

Our standard simplified board tailored for Pre-K and Kindergarten learners, facilitating essential communication during recess through intuitive symbols.

Words: 58 words for outdoor activities
Focus: Early elementary empowerment
View Product Details
School Playground Board

School Playground Communication Board

Specifically designed for active play environments, this board facilitates spontaneous social interaction and helps students navigate shared games and recess activities.

Recommended Size: XL
Ideal For: Primary elementary play areas
View Product Details
Social Communication A-Frame

Social Communication Portable A-Frame Sign

A versatile, portable solution for halls and common areas. This double-sided sign is designed to spark conversation and help students initiate friendships throughout the day.

Format: Portable A-Frame
Key Benefit: Mobile inclusion for multiple zones
View Product Details
School Nurse's Office Communication Board

School Nurse's Communication Board

Enhance student safety with a board designed specifically for health assessments. Featuring a detailed pain chart and medical icons, it helps students accurately describe their physical needs and feelings.

Recommended Size: Medium
Key Feature: Integrated Pain Chart
View Product Details
Core Vocabulary Communication Board

Core Vocabulary Communication Board

Perfect for speech rooms and general classrooms, this board provides a high-density array of core words. It supports daily language development, modeling, and academic participation across all subjects.

Recommended Size: Large
Ideal For: Classrooms and Therapy Rooms
View Product Details
Art Classroom Communication Board

Art Classroom Communication Board

Equip your art studio with technical vocabulary that allows students to follow creative instructions, request materials, and express their artistic vision.

Recommended Size: Large or Medium
Material: Durable Aluminum
View Product Details
School Library Communication Board

School Library Communication Board

Foster literacy and communication by providing students with vocabulary needed to request books and participate in school library activities.

Recommended Size: Large or Medium
Material: Durable Aluminum
View Product Details
School Playground A-Frame Board

School Playground A-Frame Board

The ultimate portable AAC solution for K-12 play environments. This rugged, double-sided board features 80+ symbols for social play and emotional regulation, paired with a full QWERTY keyboard and numeric pad to bridge the gap between symbols and literacy.

Format: Foldable, heavy-duty plastic frame with molded handle
Stability: Fillable base (sand/water) for high-wind environments
View K-12 Details
Preschool Playground A-Frame

Preschool Playground A-Frame

Designed specifically for early childhood centers, this board provides the essential core vocabulary needed for preschool students to engage in social play. Its mobile format makes it easy to set up for early learners in any outdoor setting.

Format: Portable, double-sided A-frame
Ideal For: Pre-K and early childhood learners
View Pre-K Details
Smarty Symbols Structural Frame

Structural Communication Board Frame

Ensure your communication board is securely mounted with our structural-grade frames. Designed for durability, these frames provide a stable and permanent installation for high-traffic playground environments.

Components: Includes structural posts, hardware, and caps
Compatibility: Available for Large and X-Large signs
View Frame Specs
Music Class Communication Board

Music Class Communication Board

Empower students to express rhythm, melody, and instrument choice. This board features setting-specific vocabulary designed to bridge the gap between imagination and participation in the school music room.

Format: High-Grade Aluminum Composite
Ideal For: Music rooms, band halls, and creative spaces
View Board Details

The Anatomy of Inclusion

Expertly engineered by SLPs to provide a professional, research-backed communication environment for every student on your campus.

1

Fitzgerald Key Design

Color-coded backgrounds categorize parts of speech, helping students build sentences and generalize language skills across settings.

2

Diverse Symbol Library

Featuring modern Smarty Symbols that represent a wide range of ethnicities and abilities for true student representation.

3

School Branding

Custom-integrated school logos and names make accessibility and inclusion a core part of your visible campus identity.

Communication Board Anatomy Diagram
4

Interactive QR Link

A high-visibility QR code provides instant access to a digital speech-generating replica of your specific board for mobile use.

5

Core Vocabulary Focus

Prioritizes high-frequency "Core" words that allow students to communicate 80% of their needs with minimal effort.

6

Setting-Specific Rules

Custom instructions tailored to the playground, nurse's office, or library to ensure everyone knows how to model language effectively.

Barbara Fernandes - CEO Smarty Symbols

"Our goal is not just to adapt but to pioneer. Accessibility in communication should be as integral as ramps are today."

Barbara Fernandes

CEO, Smarty Symbols

Expressive Go App Integration

Scan QR Code to Access a Speech Generating App

Every communication board from Smarty Symbols comes paired with a complimentary speech-generating app, ensuring that students and staff across all communication abilities have equal access to expressive tools. This thoughtful integration normalizes and enhances communication access within educational settings.

Whether used in conjunction with our physical communication boards or as a standalone digital solution, the free app empowers users to communicate confidently and effectively, aligning with our mission to make communication a universal experience for every member of the school community.

Learn More About Expressive Go

Trusted by Schools Nationwide

★★★★★

"Our staff and students love the communication board. It looks very professional and is built very well. I will definitely be in the market to add additional boards as needed. Thank you for your help."

Heather Knox M.Ed. Assistant Superintendent of Student Services - West Orange-Cove School
★★★★★

"Absolutely fantastic in helping us customize our school’s playground communication boards! High quality product & excellent service! I would highly recommend it for your school’s playground"

Nicole Runfola, M.S. CCC-SLP Speech-Language Pathologist - Mount Horeb School
★★★★★

"I made a phone call appointment with Remi Salami and she was extremely helpful in selecting the type of material that would be best for our harsh winters and size recommendations. She made the project extremely easy from start to finish!"

Trish Friedlander MS, Ed., CCC-SLP Speech Language Pathologist - Lake Placid, NY
★★★★★

"Remi was willing to help & came up with ideas of how we could get funding for the board. She identified community sponsors and ensure the entire process from funding to production was seamless. Her customer service is top-notch."

Carlene Fort Palmdale School District
Included with Every Board

Seamless Communication Continuity

Break down barriers between the playground and the classroom. Our boards aren't just standalone tools—they are part of a complete ecosystem. Create custom visual supports that mirror your board's vocabulary.

Unlimited Staff Accounts: Empower every teacher and therapist.
75,000+ Clinical Symbols: Access the world's most diverse library.
Consistent Visual Language: Maintain symbol accuracy school-wide.
Claim Your Staff Access
Smarty Symbols Studio visual support creator
1 YEAR Staff-Wide Studio Access

School Communication Board Catalog

For Districts & Special Education Departments

Explore our comprehensive catalog tailored for school districts, featuring a wide array of options to enhance inclusivity across educational settings. Discover how our SLP-designed solutions can be customized to meet the unique needs of your district.

Download Detailed Catalog
Smarty Symbols School Board Catalog Preview

Technical Specifications

Premium Board Materials

  • Material: Heavy-duty, durable Aluminum construction
  • Surface: High-resolution, fade-resistant print
  • Maintenance: Easy-to-clean, non-porous surface
  • Safety: Rounded corners for student safety

Mounting & Hardware

  • Available Sizes: Large and X-Large options
  • Structural Frame: Includes heavy-duty posts and hardware
  • Finish: Professional post caps included
  • Versatility: Wall-mount or post-mount configurations

Frequently Asked Questions

Here, you will find detailed answers to commonly asked questions about our products, covering topics from customization options and material quality to installation processes and support services. Our aim is to provide you with all the information you need to understand how Smarty Symbols boards can transform your school playgrounds and classrooms into more engaging, accessible, and inclusive spaces for every student.

What makes Smarty Symbols communication boards unique for school playgrounds?

Smarty Symbols communication boards stand out in the educational sector for several compelling reasons, making them a preferred choice for schools and learning environments that prioritize inclusivity and effective communication. Here’s what makes Smarty Symbols boards special:

  1. Customization Flexibility: Smarty Symbols offers a high degree of customization. Schools can choose from a range of pre-designed options or opt for fully custom solutions, including specific symbols, color schemes, and the inclusion of school logos. This flexibility allows each board to meet the unique needs of different educational settings and student populations.

  2. Cultural and Linguistic Inclusivity: The boards are designed to be as inclusive as possible, with options for bilingual or multilingual configurations in any language. This makes them ideal for diverse classrooms where multiple languages are spoken, helping all students feel represented and supported.

  3. High-Quality Materials: Manufactured from durable, weather-resistant materials suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, Smarty Symbols boards are built to last. They are designed to withstand various environmental conditions without losing their visual appeal or functionality.

  4. Focus on Diversity: The imagery used on the boards reflects a broad spectrum of humanity, supporting diversity in all its forms. This approach helps foster an environment where every student, regardless of their background, feels seen and valued.

  5. Educational and Social Benefits: These boards are not only tools for communication but also aid in language development and social skills, especially for students with speech or language impairments. They serve as a bridge, facilitating more effective interaction among all students.

  6. Comprehensive Support and Warranty: Smarty Symbols provides exceptional post-purchase support, including installation guidance, maintenance tips, and customer service. Furthermore, the boards come with a warranty that covers defects in materials and craftsmanship, ensuring schools receive support long after the initial purchase.

  7. Ease of Installation: Each board includes a detailed installation guide, making the setup process straightforward. Whether mounted on walls, posts, or fences, the boards are designed for easy integration into any school environment.

  8. Promotion of Inclusive Play: Designed specifically for environments like school playgrounds, the boards encourage inclusive play. They make playgrounds more accessible and enjoyable for children with and without disabilities, promoting an inclusive atmosphere where all students can interact and learn from each other.

What customization options are available for Smarty Symbols communication boards?

Our communication boards offer various customization levels. You can choose from predefined options available on our website, including different sizes, colors, and common customizations, or opt for a 100% custom design that meets your specific needs. Our team can incorporate specific symbols, color schemes, and even your school logo.

Are there funding options or discounts available for schools?

Yes, we offer several funding options and discounts to help schools integrate Smarty Symbols communication boards into their environments. Understanding the budget constraints often faced by educational institutions, we provide volume discounts for bulk purchases which can make a larger implementation more affordable. Additionally, schools and districts can benefit from special pricing when they choose to bundle our communication boards with Smarty Symbols Studio, our custom resource creation software. This bundle not only enhances the functionality of the communication boards but also supports a more comprehensive approach to inclusivity across the entire school or district. We also assist in identifying potential grants and funding opportunities that can further offset costs, making our solutions accessible to a wider range of educational settings.

How can we order Smarty Symbols communication boards for our school?

Ordering Smarty Symbols communication boards is designed to be seamless and ensures that every detail meets your exact needs. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to proceed:

  1. Online Customization: Visit our website and utilize the dropdown menu to customize your communication boards. You can select from a variety of options including sizes, colors, symbols, and languages. The website provides real-time pricing updates as you make your selections.

  2. Request Further Customization: If your requirements extend beyond what’s available in the dropdown menu, you can contact our team directly. We are happy to set up a virtual meeting via Zoom to discuss your project in detail, understand your specific needs, and provide a tailored quote.

  3. Digital Proof Approval: Before any manufacturing begins, we always send a digital proof of your customized communication board. This allows you to review and approve every aspect of the design, ensuring that it meets all your expectations and requirements.

  4. Place Your Order: Once you have approved the digital proof, you can confirm your order. This can be done either directly through our website for simpler designs or through a purchase order after a virtual consultation for more complex customizations.

  5. Production and Delivery: After approval, we proceed with manufacturing your boards using high-quality, durable materials. We keep you informed about the production timeline and when you can expect delivery.

  6. Installation and Support: Along with your delivered boards, we provide detailed installation guides to facilitate a smooth setup process. Additionally, our customer support team is available to assist with any installation questions or concerns to ensure that your boards are set up properly and effectively.

This thorough process ensures that your Smarty Symbols communication boards are precisely what you envisioned and are ready to enhance the communication dynamics within your educational setting.

Can the boards be designed to reflect cultural and linguistic diversity?

At Smarty Symbols, we are committed to promoting diversity and delivering the highest quality in all our imagery. Our communication boards are equipped with the Smarty Symbols Image Library, which features over 60,000 meticulously designed icons. These images include a wide array of representations concerning age, ethnicity, abilities, and cultural backgrounds, ensuring that every student can see themselves reflected in the visuals. We prioritize inclusivity and accessibility in education, and our images are crafted to support this by being vibrant, clear, and easily recognizable from a distance. Each image is created using advanced graphic design techniques to ensure they are engaging and durable, even in outdoor environments. This approach not only enhances visual communication but also fosters an inclusive atmosphere where every student feels valued and included.

How long does it take to receive our communication boards after submitting a purchase order?

Once you submit a purchase order for Smarty Symbols communication boards, the process is efficient and timely to ensure you receive your products as quickly as possible. Here’s what you can expect:

  1. Proof Review: Within one week of receiving your purchase order, we will send you a digital proof of the communication board for your review. This proof allows you to see exactly how the finished product will look and make any necessary adjustments or approvals.

  2. Production: After you approve the proof, the production of your communication board begins. Our team works diligently to ensure that your board is manufactured to the highest standards with quality materials.

  3. Delivery: Once production is complete, which typically takes 2 to 3 weeks, your board will be shipped directly to your location. We strive to ensure that the total time from the submission of your purchase order to the delivery of your board is as swift and seamless as possible.

We understand the importance of timely delivery, especially in educational settings where planning and implementation are key. Our process is designed to provide you with a quick turnaround while maintaining the quality and accuracy of your custom communication boards.