INSERVICES & WORKSHOPS

The WVATC provides training inservices and workshops throughout WV. Training is available to local county school systems and related service agencies for a fee. Local community groups and parent groups may request training on autism at a reduced cost. Attendance at WVATC sponsored inservices and workshops is provided at no cost to registered families. Training topics include but are not limited to:

•  Instructional Strategies

•  Functional Assessment and Plan Development

•  Teaching Communication and Social Skills

•  Developing and Implementing Visual Strategies

•  Curriculum Modification

•  Transition Strategies

Inservices and workshops can be scheduled by calling WVATC. CEU, course credit and/or Autism Mentor Points (see below) are available for some of the WVATC trainings. For a downloadable brochure click here.

Obtaining Credit for Training Participation

Continuing Education Units (CEUs)

CEUs are available for WVATC trainings and are provided by the MU Community and Technical College . CEUs are earned on a scale of .1 CEU for every actual hour of training or instructional time. For example, if you attend ten hours of instruction or training, you would earn one CEU.

To obtain CEUs, an application and proof of attendance must be provided (a signed agenda or copy of the certificate) with a check for $10.00 per training. For additional information, contact Wanda Wells at 304-696-2332.

Mentor Points (WV only)

Mentor points are available for paraprofessionals working with or planning to work with students with autism in the school system. To become an Autism Mentor, paraprofessionals must meet the following requirements:

• State mandated qualifications for Aide III
   
• Completion of a staff development program related to autism (30 hours of training completed within the past 4 years and approved by WV Department of Education)
   
• 2 years experience working with a student with autism (approved by Local Education Agency)
   
• Physical ability and stamina to work with a student with autism (approved by Local Education Agency)

The WVATC offers several trainings that meet the staff development requirements to become an Autism Mentor:

• Mentor Training
   
• Positive Behavior Support lectures
   
• Special Topics Training (link all to training page)
   
• Inservices provided through contracts with local school systems

Paraprofessionals may obtain .5 points per hour of training. For example, if you attend a 10 hour training, you would earn 5 points. Signed agendas or certificates should be sent to:

WV State Department of Education
Office of Special Education
Capitol Bldg. 6, Room 304
1900 Kanawha Blvd., East
Charleston , WV 25305

 

For additional questions about Mentor Points, please contact the Office of Special Education at 1-800-642-8541.

* Please note that paraprofessionals may attend training related to teaching students with autism through their local school system or other agency and receive Mentor Points. Final approval for Mentor Points is the responsibility of the WV State Department of Education, Office of Special Education.