Washington Sensory Disabilities Services (WSDS) is pleased to collaborate with Central Michigan University (CMU). CMU provides an undergraduate certificate program – DeafBlind Intervener – which can lead to a national credential. (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 WSDS/Deafblind Program 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 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 WSDS scholarship application by May 10, 2024
- 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 Program mentor
Apply online by May 10, 2024:
A limited number of scholarships for the CMU DBI Program are available, thanks to Washington Sensory Disabilities Services/OSPI funding.
2024 Program Timeline
| Important Dates | Tasks |
|---|---|
| April 8 | Application process opens (Washington State residents only) |
| May 10 | Deadline to submit application and required documents |
| May 13-17 | Committee review of applications |
| May 21 | Scholarships awarded – applicants notified |
| May 31 | Recipient must confirm acceptance of scholarship award |
| June 12 | Recipient must apply to CMU |
| August 2024 | 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)
