Professional Development

Introduction to Deafblindness 2024

Overview 

A 10-hour course (online) designed for paraprofessionals and new staff, the Introduction to Deafblindness series provides basic knowledge about working with students who have vision and hearing differences (deafblindness), and information regarding high-quality practices. This training serves as a valuable starting point for those new to the field, laying the groundwork for understanding and supporting deafblind learners and those with complex support needs.

Certificates of Completion will be provided to participants who attend the series in its entirety and complete a brief survey.

Session 1

September 19

Time: 4:00 to 5:30 PM EST

Location: Virtual

Session 2

October 10

Time: 4:00 to 5:30 PM EST

Location: Virtual

Session 3

October 24

Time: 4:00 to 5:30 PM EST

Location: Virtual

Session 4

November 7

Time: 4:00 to 5:30 PM EST

Location: Virtual

Session 5

November 21

Time: 4:00 to 5:30 PM EST

Location: Virtual

Session 6

December 12

Time: 4:00 to 5:30 PM EST

Location: Virtual


Foundations for Deafblindness 2024

Foundations in Deafblindness is a year-long program comprising two courses (online) totaling 50 hours. This training delves deeper into the complexities of deafblindness, providing paraprofessionals with practical strategies and a thorough understanding of intervener practices. It is particularly beneficial for those looking to expand their knowledge and skills in this area.

Target Audience: 

*Note – This training program is for individuals working directly with a deafblind student(s) in the states of Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Vermont.  

  • Paraprofessional
  • Ed Tech
  • Teacher Assistant/Classroom Aide
  • 1:1 Personnel (i.e., parent, nursing, interpreter, home health aide, respite provider, babysitter/nanny) 

Modules are hosted by a Facilitator and participants will be provided support and feedback during engagement in each module. The modules can be completed at a time most convenient for you and at your own pace.

Fall Cohort

Foundations in Deafblindness Fall Course

Class begins on October 1st.

Certificates offered.

Cost: $300


Graduate Certificate in Deafblindness

The Graduate Certificate in Deafblindness is currently in the approval process with UMass Boston, and the first cohort will begin this fall. Designed for working professionals, this graduate certificate is comprised of five courses, with one course per semester for a total of five continuous semesters. Courses provide an in-depth overview of deafblindness, psychosocial implications, multicultural perspectives, communication strategies, literacy, instruction and assessment, high-quality practices, and assistive technology. Courses are online with some field experiences incorporated as part of the assignments.

Cost: Each course is three graduate credits with tuition costs of $1050 plus some one-time fees, total program cost of $5,250 plus fees. Students accepted for the fall cohort may be eligible for grant funding to reduce tuition costs.

REGISTRATION: For more information, contact [email protected]


Family Events and Resources

A variety of virtual and in-person networking for the families of children registered with NEC. Learn about various topics and connect with other parents.

Bike Day

Northeast Passage will provide adapted bikes, helmets for parents and kids, extra straps and foams for the bicycle. This is a great opportunity to meet NEC staff and other families.

Date: October 20 Time: 11:00 to 3:00 pm EST

Location: Windham New Hampshire

NEC Family Storytime

You’re invited to join family story time, an online space for story time and crafts!

Storytime is FREE and you will receive a box with all of the needed craft supplies. The program will be recorded and can be viewed at a different time once you are registered with the group.

Location: Virtual Zoom meeting

Family Connections

Mindfulness & Parenting Tips

We offer opportunities for our families to engage in fun community events and meet other families who have a child who is deafblind.  

Date: TBD