Approve Agreement with the University of South Florida (USF) for the Training of 30 Masters Level Instructional Staff (School Psychologists), 2011 Through 2013 (Curriculum and Instruction Division)

The Department of Exceptional Student Education (ESE) and the Department of Student Support, Psychological Services, is initiating a training plan in cooperation with USF that will train instructional staff in applied behavior analysis.

USF will deliver four graduate level courses (15 hours total) to 30 master’s level instructional staff so they meet the requirements to take the Certified Behavior Analyst (CBA) examination. The teaching calendar (one course per semester) will cover fall 2011, spring 2012, fall 2012, and spring 2013.

CBA’s provide direct support to students with intensive behavioral needs by guiding school teams in the design and implementation of functional behavioral assessments, positive behavioral intervention plans, monitoring student progress, and supporting intervention and data reliability. They will also assist schools with universal/schoolwide strategies and targeted group/classroom behavior programs.

Individuals participating in this training will be asked to sign a commitment with the district that indicates their intention to remain with the district at least three years after certification has been obtained. Participants will commit to utilizing their CBA certification to assist students, schools, and families in improving challenging behaviors.

Funds of $45,000 are included in the divisional special revenue/federal programs budget, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).