Washington Sensory Disabilities Services (WSDS) is collaborating with Central Michigan University (CMU) to provide training and a credential for becoming a deafblind intervener.
Training Design:
The training, which runs from Fall to Spring includes:
-
- Online course of study, hosted by faculty at CMU
- Coaching and consultation from a WSDS Deafblind Project mentor
- WSDS will provide a limited number of scholarships covering tuition costs for WA State professionals
- CMU Program Flier (PDF)
Scholarship Candidates will need:
- To provide one-to-one support to a child with deafblindness
- Have the support of administrators and the child’s educational team to participate in the training
Participant Responsibilities:
- Complete WSDS SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION
- Ask your supervisor/administrator to write a letter of support
- Commit to complete the course of study, including all assignments
- Participate in three onsite coaching sessions with WSDS Deafblind Project mentor
Applications for the 2022-2023 cohort has closed.
| Important Dates | Tasks |
|---|---|
| March 21 | Application process opens for Washington State paraeducators and braillists |
| May 2 | Deadline to submit application and required documents |
| May 9-13 | Committee review |
| May 16 | Scholarships awarded – applicants notified |
| May 27 | Applicants must confirm acceptance of scholarship award |
| June 3 | Applicants must apply to CMU |
| August 2022 | CMU course begins |
National Definition of Intervener Services in Educational Settings:
Interveners, through the provision of intervener services, provide access to information and communication and facilitate the development of social and emotional well-being for children who are deafblind. Intervener services are provided by an individual, typically a paraeducator, who has received specialized training in deafblindness and the process of intervention. An intervener provides consistent one-to-one support to a student who is deafblind (ages 3 through 21 or as mandated by state regulations) throughout the instructional day.
Additional Resources:
NCDB IEP Guide – “Are Intervener Services Appropriate for Your Student with Deaf-Blindness? An IEP Discussion Guide”
Comparison of Roles – review roles of the Paraeducator, Intervener, Sign Language Interpreter(PDF)