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.

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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.

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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]

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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.