As we continue to strengthen the EPLI program, important updates are coming for the application process and requirements for maintaining EPLI Trainer Status. We appreciate your commitment to high-quality, evidence-based practices and look forward to enriching the EPLI program together!

Over the summer, we will refine the updated application process and requirements for the 2025-2026 school year. More information will be available by September 1, 2025.

Maintaining status as an EPLI Trainer of START Content includes meeting expectations in three key areas:

1. Submit an Individual EPLI Trainer Report
Trainers complete and submit an individual report twice a year.

2. Deliver Professional Learning
Over a two-year cycle, trainers deliver a minimum of 12 hours of START content. 

3. Complete Continuing Education
Trainers complete at least 15 hours of START-delivered or sponsored professional learning every two years. This includes participation in an annual on-demand content update from/by START (1–2 hours/year).

EPLI was developed to build the capacity of regional and local districts to effectively support autistic students in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE).

Beginning in 2025–2026, START will introduce the Early Childhood Effective Practices Leadership Initiative (Early Childhood EPLI).

The goal of Early Childhood EPLI is to prepare EPLI Trainers of START Content who can deliver professional learning on evidence-based practices to regional and local school staff, as well as families, to support the education of young autistic students.

View the requirements and essential skills to become a Trainer and the structure of the Early Childhood EPLI Trainer Bootcamp here. Detailed information will be available soon.

The Coaching Structure Checklist is an ISD and district planning tool that may be used to set up a plan to define the role of coaches, recruit and prepare coaches, and provide ongoing support while monitoring progress and promoting sustainability. 

Note: This Coaching Structure Checklist is a work in progress as we revise the Coaching Structure Guidebook.

We are excited to announce the launch of the START Planning and Data System (PDS). The START PDS is a website that will offer school staff a collection of planning and data tools to promote the use of evidence-based practices for students with autism and other learning needs. 

The 2025-2026 RCN Contract Application will be completed in the START PDS. The first section of the START PDS to launch is called “Planning.” In the Planning section, users can create and submit an Annual Plan, which serves as the RCN’s application for a contract. More features will continue to be added to the START PDS over time. 

The START PDS and a Tutorial with Screenshots are available on the 2025-2026 RCN Application and Contract Forms page of the START website. 

If you have any questions, please contact Stephanie Pulido. 

 The Statewide Autism Resources and Training (START) Project is funded by the Michigan Department of Education, Office of Special Education to provide training and technical assistance to educators in Michigan that serve students with ASD.

START Project | autismed@gvsu.edu | (616) 331-6480