State Early Childhood Technical Assistance Systems

Wyoming

• Birth through five TA System Description
• 12/01/2006

Basic Design Features

The Wyoming Technical Assistance system is centralized and incorporated within the structure of the Developmental Disabilities Division, the Lead Agency for Part C and the agency that provides preschool special education and related services on behalf of the State Department of Education. The Developmental Disabilities Division also contracts with the Wyoming Institute for Disabilities, which is the University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research and Service. Primarily, the Developmental Disabilities Division and State Department of Education support the TA system. Organizations that provide technical assistance relating to early intervention and preschool special education services, but that are not directly supported by the Lead Agency, include the Parent Training and Information Center, the Wyoming Institutes for Disabilities Family Support Network, the Wyoming Early Start Program, and Mountain Plains Regional Resource Center. Funding sources, which contribute to the operations and maintenance of the state technical assistance system, include Federal Part C funds, State funds from the Lead Agency, and the Department of Education.

Primary Recipients of Technical Assistance Services

Technical assistance and training are provided to early childhood special educators, related service providers, family service coordinators, administrators, local ICCs, parents, and other agency personnel involved in the provision of early intervention services.

Ways Technical Assistance is Provided

Technical assistance is frequently provided through statewide conferences, regional/topical workshops, consultations to programs, information and consultation via telephone and email, and through mini grants to support innovative practices. Additionally, technical assistance is provided through in-service training courses, identification and use of model demonstration sites, and peer-to-peer information exchange and consultation.

TA System Operations

The Developmental Disabilities Division is partnering with the University of Northern Colorado to assess the needs of developmental center staffs using the Groupsystems electronic meeting software. This application tool is designed to elicit group collaboration and consensus. Results of an annual self-assessment and findings from local monitoring are considered in determining priorities for technical assistance services.

Evaluation of the TA System

Participant evaluation forms are designed to rate overall satisfaction and effectiveness of trainings. Results are used to improve delivery and content of technical assistance and training. The State ICC advises the lead agency in determining the effectiveness of the annual statewide conference.

Relationship of TA System to the Monitoring/Supervision of Local Programs

The findings of local monitoring determine the immediate priorities to be addressed by the state technical assistance system at the local program level. Timely follow up visits are utilized to determine the effectiveness of technical assistance, and determine possible need for formal training.

Relationship of TA System to the states Comprehensive System of Personnel Development (CSPD)

The technical assistance system is part of the state Comprehensive System of Personnel Development. Formal training activities are planned and coordinated by the lead agency. Continuing Education Units are earned through participation in accredited training activities. University courses/credits, and certifications are also a part of the state TA system and CSPD.

For further information, contact

• Sara Mofield, Program Manager
• Division of Developmental Disabilities
• 186E Qwest Building
• 6101 Yellowstone Road
• Cheyenne, WY 82002
• (307) 777-6972
• Fax: (307) 777-3337
• E-mail: sara.mofield@health.wyo.gov
• Web site: wdh.state.wy.us/ddd/earlychildhood/index.html