Transforming Special Education: How This Tech Director Is Harnessing Gaming for Revolutionary Learning Experiences

Sarah Sasiak used to feel heartache watching her son Tanner, now 18, struggle during elementary school chorus concerts.

Tanner is on the autism spectrum and has trouble communicating, making it hard for him to express himself or join in with the choir.

“He would just stand there, singing along with the other kids,” Sarah recalled. “He couldn’t get the words out,” due to his challenges with language processing.

As he got older, Tanner wished to enjoy the same activities as his three neurotypical siblings.

For years, he found it tough to engage socially. But in 2022, his school district, the Morris-Union Jointure Commission, launched an esports arena for students with significant cognitive challenges, particularly those with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

The arena resembles a mix between a computer lab and a high-tech gym. It features large screens for gaming and specialized consoles designed to assist players with fine motor difficulties and other challenges.

This unique space is thought to be the first of its kind in a school district and was created by Evan Abramson, the director of technology and innovation at Morris-Union Jointure Commission. His goal is to use technology to help students with special needs thrive.

Abramson is also recognized for his expertise in applying artificial intelligence in education, especially for special education. He’s known as a hands-on tech director who explains advanced technology in a relatable way for teachers.

“He merges the technical and educational sides of the job seamlessly,” said Janet Fike, the superintendent of the district. “He’s a visionary and adapts quickly when things don’t go as planned.”

‘Doing everything you can to make them feel normal’

Interestingly, Abramson, 47, didn’t always aim for a career in education. A skilled baseball player, he received a sports scholarship in Florida, where he interned with the St. Louis Cardinals, looking toward sports management.

However, a family situation pulled him back to New Jersey. To earn money, he began teaching at a Catholic school and later transitioned to public schools. He eventually became a physical education teacher and then a tech coach before rising to tech director.

When the tech director position at Morris-Union Jointure Commission opened in early 2021, Abramson saw it as a chance to make a difference. The district serves students with special education needs, providing expertise that many other local schools lack.

They offer support to about 225 students who have cognitive or behavioral challenges, some attending only briefly, while others stay until they turn 21.

Reflecting on his journey, Abramson shared personal insights. His son was born early and faced health issues that affected his hearing. After several surgeries, he now hears well and is a general education student. But he needed extra support for years.

“My passion comes from my experiences as a special education parent,” he said. “We want our kids to feel normal and accepted.”

‘This esports thing is pretty legit’

Abramson’s son inspired the creation of the esports arena. When he was 10, he asked to play Fortnite. While unsure of the gaming’s influence, Abramson was amazed by his son’s interactions during play.

“I witnessed great conversations, the empathy, and problem-solving skills,” he reflected. “I thought, ‘this esports thing has real value.’”

When Fike received a $50,000 technology grant, she asked Abramson for ideas. He proposed creating an esports arena for students, drawing on his own son’s positive gaming experience. Fike fully supported the idea, saying, “It sounds innovative.”

Working with local tech companies, they built the arena equipped with specialized gear, including keyboards that can be easily sanitized.

They also invested in adaptable gaming controllers suitable for students with motor difficulties and built a shout-casting station for those who like to narrate their gameplay, much like a sports commentator.

‘Something happened that we didn’t anticipate’

Initially, some teachers were doubtful about the project, believing funds would be better spent on traditional materials. Understanding teacher buy-in was crucial, Abramson took them to experience a college esports arena first-hand. They all played together.

“Within minutes, they were joking and enjoying themselves,” he said.

However, many teachers still worried about whether the students could handle gaming. This changed during the arena’s ribbon-cutting ceremony, where student siblings joined in the fun.

Many siblings had never played together before, leaving parents and teachers emotional. “We realized we had built a bridge, allowing students to feel normal and connect with their siblings,” Abramson said. “That moment meant everything.”

‘They are just as deserving as everyone else.’

Time in the esports arena serves as an incentive for students, especially those with behavior challenges but higher cognitive abilities. Marissa Zinberg, a teacher at Morris-Union Juncture, noted how excited a tech-savvy student was at the arena’s launch.

The arena isn’t suitable for all students, as half may have more severe challenges. But for those who can, it’s a game-changer.

“Students often feel lost between being more functional than some and less than their typical peers,” Zinberg said. “They deserve chances to interact with others.”

The district also created a smaller esports training lab for younger students featuring fun, cooperative games like Mario Kart, helping them learn teamwork while playing.

The esports arena has connected older students with the community as well. They have gamed against local general education students and police officers, helping foster understanding and comfort.

Lindsay Jones, CEO of CAST, a nonprofit aimed at making education accessible, emphasized the importance of these interactions. “Isolation can lead to anxiety in students with disabilities,” she noted. “When they engage with others in positive ways, they’re seen as whole individuals.”

‘The first one out of the gate’ on AI

Abramson is now exploring how generative AI can enhance education, especially for special education. He’s sharing insights with about 40 districts, promoting cautious yet innovative use of AI tools to streamline teaching tasks and support students.

Melissa Signore, superintendent of a nearby district, praised Abramson for being proactive. “He’s ahead of the curve, preparing educators for future challenges,” she said.

A national survey indicated a surge in interest in AI training for teachers, rising from 29% to 43% over a year as districts scramble to prepare.

Abramson’s training sessions are tailored for different audiences, ensuring everyone from parents to teachers understand the educational impact of technology.

“He brings both technology and educational expertise, a rare combination,” Signore said.

Tech can engage students in special education ‘in a different way’

Besides esports and AI, Abramson visits classrooms to demonstrate new tech, catering to individual student interests.

For example, he once took Alex, a former student, on a virtual trip to an auto show since Alex loves electric cars. The highlight was viewing a Tesla up close.

“He opens our eyes to new technology,” Zinberg said. “It’s refreshing and helps engage the kids differently.”

Tanner’s experience in the esports arena has been profound. When he and his peers compete, they look like any typical gamer, showing their skills and confidence. “It’s given him pride and independence,” said Sarah. More importantly, it’s quality bonding time with his siblings.”