Project ACCESS is currently accepting applications for our newest, currently in development, initiative. Project ACCESS School Autism Specialist (PASAS) is a new designation by Project ACCESS and the first cohort of PASASs will begin training in the fall of 2018. 
By the time they have earned the designation, PASASs will have completed a rigorous schedule of training in evidence-based interventions, documented mastery of knowledge and skills through presentation of portfolio artifacts aligned to competencies, and experienced in-classroom coaching by experts in the field. While not necessarily being designated a school autism consultant, PASASs nonetheless can be considered to be experts in providing educational services to students on the autism spectrum.

• We are looking for 5 school districts to participate from each of five general regions (northwest, northeast, central, southeast, southwest) of the state. These selected cohorts will each consist of 2 certificated teachers per district.  
• Approximately two times monthly during the academic year for two years, beginning June 2018, cohorts will meet on school days from 4pm to 7pm, as well as attending a summer and winter conference.
• Flipped instructional model = participating teachers complete online lessons and readings prior to the in-person sessions. Cohort sessions will then allow for demonstration and practice during the training.
• The most exciting component of this model:  coaching.  In this component each individual teacher will have the opportunity to have an experienced Autism Coach come into his or her classroom at least once per month to work with them to build their skills.
• DESE will post a list of PASAS program completers on their website.
• Up to 12 total graduate credit hours are available for the 2-year training sequence. The credit will be in addition to the PASAS classification. We are negotiating to offer course credit for a significantly reduced fee.

Timeline:

• Applications are due in the Project ACCESS office by May 1, 2018.
• Successful applicants will be notified by May 15, 2018.
• Letters of agreement due in the Project ACCESS office by June 1, 2018.
• First PASAS Summer Conference held in Jefferson City on June 22, 2018.

INTERESTED?!  Visit our website for more information and to apply:
bit.ly/pasasinfo

#PASAS