Maine Access to Inclusive Education Resources

MALT Team Updates and Training

Forty-two educational teams across the state have already been trained as Maine Autism Leader Teams (MALT), thanks to a partnership of the Maine Autism Institute for Education and Research and the Maine Department of Education (see list below). These school-based and early intervention teams include general and special educators, related services staff, and general and special education administrators. With a focus on students in their own district, teams received training and ongoing support in implementing evidence-based practices (EBPs) with fidelity and collecting data, with a focus on measuring student outcomes.

The Evidence-Based practices that are used have been part of the National Professional Development Center in Autism Spectrum Disorders project and the National Standards Project, and have been supported through documented research. Specific topics addressed included the following: Overview of ASD, Functional Behavioral Assessment, Social Skills Instruction, Communication Programming, Visual Supports, Educational Approaches and Building a Comprehensive Plan, which included the appropriate and adequate training and supports for paraprofessionals working with children with autism spectrum disorder in the least restrictive environment.

We are now seeking applications from interested districts and early intervention teams for the 2017-18 academic year MALT training. To learn more about this opportunity and to apply, visit our website.  Only 12 school-based or agency-based teams will be chosen for the 2017-18 academic year, so apply early!