2021-2022 Intensive Training and Resources
As a state-wide project funded by the Michigan Department of Education (MDE), Office of Special Education (OSE), we are working to build capacity across Michigan. Through our partnerships with Regional Collaborative Networks (RCN), we have provided training across the state, and through our project website, we offer access to many resources and tools. In the past year, due to the requirement of virtual education, we have all learned how to be more efficient and flexible in delivering training by leveraging technology and disseminating materials in a new way, and as we all become busier, we are mindful of the time and capacity of those participating in training. As part of START’s continued evolution, it is imperative to be agile and continuously adapt systems, content, and methods of delivery to the changing environment and needs of the field. In line with these goals, expect to see a wider range of modalities to receive information, training, and resources.
For the 21-22 school year, we are focused on reaching a broader audience. This aligns with our goals of greater access and equity. Information about supporting our youngest learners will be provided through resources on the START website and a three-day, team-based Early Childhood Training series to be delivered once in the fall (virtually) and once in the spring (in-person, circumstances permitting). Applications to attend the fall session as a team will be available in August; applications to attend the spring session will be available at a later date. Numerous resources for supporting K-12 students will be available on the START website and a new K-12 training series will be offered through Kent CAN in Grand Rapids and we will continue to partner with Wayne RACE for K-12, year two. A BYF training series is not scheduled for next school year. As a team, we are considering how to best meet the needs of teams working with transition-age students. We will be adding more transition-focused resources for trainers and teams to access on the START website and plan for focused training on topics such as the discovery process.
We are grateful to all of the RCN representatives, START trainers, and START coaches who deliver training, resources, and coaching support within each region of the state. Through the new RCN application, you will have the flexibility to identify activities within each priority that meet the needs of young children all the way up to transition-age students. Thank you to all of the RCN representatives working with us to continue to expand access to practices and systems that make learning, socializing, and life better for our students.
