Application for CMU Scholarship opens April 6th
The Washington DeafBlind Program is pleased to collaborate with Central Michigan University (CMU). CMU provides an undergraduate certificate program – DeafBlind Intervener – which can lead to a national credential. This scholarship is for Washington residents only. (Read the info below carefully and see the CMU flier).
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 Washington DeafBlind Program mentor
- The Washington DeafBlind Program will provide a limited number of scholarships covering tuition costs for WA State professionals
- CMU Program Flier (PDF)
Scholarship Candidates will need:
- To have employment with a WA school district providing one-to-one support for a student with deafblindness
- Have the support of administrators and the student’s educational team to participate in the training
Participant Responsibilities:
- Complete the scholarship application by May 4, 2026
- 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 a Washington DeafBlind Program mentor
Apply online by May 4, 2026:
A limited number of scholarships for the CMU DBI Program are available.
2026 Program Timeline
| Important Dates | Tasks |
|---|---|
| April 6 | Application process opens (Washington State residents only) |
| May 4 | Deadline to submit application and required documents |
| May 5-8 | Committee review of applications |
| May 12 | Scholarships awarded – applicants notified |
| May 29 | Recipient must confirm acceptance of scholarship award |
| June 15 | Complete CMU program application |
| August 24 | CMU DBI program classes begin |
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 DeafBlindness? An IEP Discussion Guide”
Comparison of Roles – review roles of the Paraeducator, Intervener, Sign Language Interpreter(PDF)
