Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital

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About Us

Awards: 2009 Circle of Honour Recipients

Lynnette Norris

Service

A pioneer in the field of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC), Special Educator, Lynnette Norris provides service and advocacy for individuals with complex communication needs.  Lynnette has passionately sought to find ways to improve the quality of life for children through meaningful communication. Lynnette began her work 30 years ago, at a time when public attitudes and understanding of disability were just beginning to be examined and questioned.

Lynnette Norris

Lynnette’s career began as a Special Educator for students who used Blissymbolics (an alternative communication system comprised of graphic symbols). Her passion and commitment have inspired her to find communication solutions for children and youth with the most complex needs. 

Lynnette has consistently fostered an interest in the field of AAC – with clients and professionals at Bloorview, across the province, country and internationally.  She is an active member of the International Society for Augmentative and Alternative Communication (ISAAC), as well as the Canadian Chapter of ISAAC.   

As a trailblazer for Bloorview’s Augmentative Communication Service, Lynnette made home and school visits before the term ‘community outreach’ came into use.  With strong, natural leadership skills, Lynnette identifies creative ways to help kids and their families find new solutions to everyday challenges. Her approach is supportive and collaborative.

As Shirley McNaughton, Chair of Blissymbolics Communication International states, “Lynnette has shared her extensive knowledge well beyond her work at Bloorview. She has served on many committees through the years and has volunteered to undertake international projects-always with enthusiasm, making it an enjoyable experience for all.”

Through her hard work, determination and creativity, Lynnette has had an enormous impact on clients and families, the field of AAC itself, and the numerous colleagues and students whom she has mentored.