Free Mass FOCUS Academy Courses for Fall

Our project, the Massachusetts FOCUS Academy, is launching its sixth year of professional development courses. Mass FOCUS Academy is run through the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, and the courses are taught by staff here at the ICI. All courses focus on the successful transition from high school to adult life for young people with disabilities (ages 14 to 22). The courses are free for teachers, counselors, administrators, and other school professionals who work with transition-age youth with disabilities.

This fall, we’ll offer two courses from our four-course transition series: Youth Development and Self Determination, and Career Development and Competitive Employment for Students with Disabilities. Class participants will review the history, theory, and practical application of these two topics, both of which are critical to transition planning.

We’ll also offer a two-part course called The Generalist: Transition Planning 1 and 2. This course provides an overview of nationally recognized planning frameworks and strategies that improve transition outcomes.

All courses present the most up-to-date information on secondary transition for students with a range of disabilities. They also provide opportunities for participants to share information and strategies on how to develop and refine transition services within their school districts.

Participants can earn 67.5 PDPs at no cost, or three graduate credits (non-degree-bearing) through UMass Boston for a reduced fee. Courses begin September 25th and registration is ongoing until September 19th. For more information and to apply, please visit the Mass FOCUS Academy website. For specific questions about the courses, please email me: nancy.hurley@umb.edu.