FB2-F:  Rediscovering the MCSD Autism Program

This presentation is a summation of the initiatives Christine Durst enacted as the Autism Programming Specialist in the Martin County School District and through her efforts as a PEPSA Partner. The goal of her project was, and remains, to develop and implement continuity in the delivery of educational service models to students while supporting the growth and skills of staff and teachers through a vetted clearinghouse of evidence-based resources.  She also presents the implementation of professional learning modules specific to those working with our students with Autism and related disabilities. While her PEPSA Partnership will end with the culmination of year 2, the efforts for the continual evolution of the district programming will continue. Christine states “Through my work with PEPSA, I have successfully laid the foundation for positive future outcomes.”

Learning Outcomes:

1. Participants will be introduced to the rationale behind the “Rediscovering the MCSD Autism Program” project and the steps taken, in collaboration with a CARD mentoring partner, to evolve, hone, and improve the Martin County School District Autism Programming. 
2. The audience will learn what the deficits were, the steps taken to improve those deficits, and the positive outcomes and deliverables achieved as a result. 
3. Participants will learn how anecdotal staff data/input can drive solutions and build rapport and buy in.
4. Participants will understand the value of responding to need with evidence-based curriculum.
5. Overall, participants will gain a greater understanding of the value of ongoing self -reflection to not only drive programming outcomes but one’s own professional practice as well.

Speakers